Assessment of the Economic Impact of the Saiga Population on Pasture Ecosystems and Agriculture

This article discusses the issue of pasture degradation in the West Kazakhstan region, which has been caused by a significant rise in the population of saigas (Saiga tatarica). This study aims to quantify agricultural losses and establish the relationship between saiga numbers and ecosystem changes. The research methodology incorporates field observations, agroecological observations, and mathematical analysis. Correlation and regression analyses were performed. The application of correlation and regression models confirmed a statistically significant relationship between the growth of the saiga population and the decline in hay yield: increasing animal numbers lead to a reduction in pasture productivity. The greatest losses were recorded in the Bokeiordinsky district, where grazing pressure exceeded 62.5%. It was concluded that urgent measures are needed to regulate the saiga population, restore degraded land, and introduce rotational grazing. Mechanisms for the adaptive management of wild populations that take into account the interests of the agricultural sector were proposed. The findings obtained can provide a solid foundation for informed decision-making in agricultural and environmental policy within the region.