Surface water-groundwater interactions in the western plain of the Ili Valley

Both surface water and groundwater resources are important components of regional water resources. Interaction between surface water and groundwater is an important link in the formation of water resources, such interactions are also important in the rational development and utilization of water resources. Comprehensive analysis of geological and hydrogeological conditions, choice of typical tributaries, analysis of hydrogen and oxygen stable isotopic composition and spatial distribution characteristics revealed recharge routes of groundwater sources and close relationship between surface water and groundwater. Mutual transformation between Ili River and groundwater was calculated using ²²²Rn tracing. Groundwater runoff in north plain of Ili River was found to be mainly controlled by topography and lithology, while groundwater runoff in south plain of Ili River was found to be controlled by neotectonics movements, groundwater having frequent multiple transformations with surface water. Rational exploitation and utilization of groundwater in this area could be realized.