Oskemen Reservoir, Reservoir in Kazakhstan

Oskemen Reservoir is a reservoir on the Irtysh River in East Kazakhstan Region, formed by the dam of the Oskemen hydroelectric station 5 km upstream of the city of Oskemen. It stretches 77 km, is 0.2 to 1.2 km wide, covers 37 km² and holds 0.65 km³. Its greatest depth near the dam is 45 m, with an average depth of 17 m.

The reservoir was constructed to generate electricity, manage flood control, and supply water for agricultural use in the region. The dam became essential infrastructure for the city of Oskemen and has supported the area's water and power needs since its creation.

The reservoir's name in Kazakh is Öskemen Bögeni, after the city of Öskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk) 5 km downstream. Its fish population has changed since the first years, when 27 species were recorded; by 2010 there were 22 species, with introduced bream, zander and carp among them. Aquatic plants include water chestnut, pondweed and bladderwort.

The best time to visit is June through September when weather is warm and sunny, allowing for swimming and water activities. Most visitors reach the area from the city of Ust-Kamenogorsk by train, bus, or car, with numerous resorts offering accommodations ranging from camping to luxury hotels.

The reservoir's water is renewed every 10 to 35 days, and its level depends on releases from the Bukhtarma Reservoir upstream. The dam stands 5 km upstream of Öskemen; downstream lies the Shulbi Reservoir. The plant has four units of 83 MW, 332 MW in total, with a head of 41.8 m.