Analysis of physio-chemical properties of soils in Guyuk Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Land use is one of the main drivers of many processes of environmental changes as it influences basic resources within the landscape, including the soil resources and poor soil management which rapidly deteriorated the soil for farming and becomes threat for farmers. The study examines the physical and chemical characteristics of soil for farming in Guyuk Local Government area Adamawa State. Soil samples were collected from four (4) districts of Banjiram, Bobini, Chikila, and Dukul of different farmland. A GPS hand receiver was used to locate the sample points). The results revealed that the percentage of sandy, clay and silts accounts for 51.60%, 26.40%, 22% at a depth of 0-15cm and 55.60%, 24.40cm, 20cm at a depth of 15-30cm respectively in Banjiram. The highest content of soil is the sandy soil. In Banjiram, the analysis of chemical properties of soil at a depth of 0-15cm recorded a pH value of 6.6 thus it is neither too acidic nor alkaline and hence supports agricultural farming. Also, at depth of 15-30cm, the pH value increase by 0.1 hence the soil is still good for cultivation of crops. From this results, It is pertinent that some measures be applied in line with the studied carried out in the four district so as to maintain a balance in the physiochemical properties of soil. Some of this measures recommended include; stoppage of bush burning to avoid increase in alkalinity of the soil. Also, biological control of pest is a good measure as chemical is not used and hence the remains of the pest serve as manure for the soil which increases it fertility. Finally, it is essential that government impose strict measure in respect to the over use of soil.