IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

IIARD INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (IJGEM )

E-ISSN 2504-8821
P-ISSN 2695-1878
VOL. 10 NO. 9 2024
DOI: 10.56201/ijgem.v10.no9.2024.pg58.73

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Geological Characterization and Soil Erodibility Factors in Parts of Southeastern, Nigeria

Odoh, Benard Ifeanyi, Nwokeabia, Charity Nkiru and Odinye, Arinzechukwu Chukwuebuka

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Abstract

This study focuses on analyzing soil erodibility in five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Imo State, Nigeria: Isu, Mbaitoli, Njaba, Orlu, and Oru East. These areas are prone to flooding due to their location within the lower Niger River Basin, exacerbating soil erosion. The study aims to evaluate geological and soil characteristics influencing landslide susceptibility in these LGAs. The aim of this study is to assess soil erodibility factors and geological characteristics in Imo State, Nigeria, focusing on Isu, Mbaitoli, Njaba, Orlu, and Oru East LGAs. It involves identifying predominant soil types, calculating Soil Erodibility Factor (K), and mapping erosion susceptibilities. The study correlates data with hydrological and climatic information to analyze landslide risks and propose mitigation strategies. This study utilizes data primarily from the Soil Map of the World, version 3.6, corrected for errors and updated for relevance. Geographic Information System (GIS) tools are employed for spatial analyses, including mapping soil types and erosion susceptibilities. The study also integrates topographical data to understand elevation variations and geological formations impacting soil characteristics. The study identifies two primary soil types: Dystric Nitosols covering 578.63 km² and Xanthic Ferralsols covering 0.064 km². Dystric Nitosols have a low Soil Erodibility Factor (K) of 0.017769 t.ha.h.ha/MJ/mm, indicating good structural stability and less susceptibility to erosion. In contrast, Xanthic Ferralsols exhibit a higher K-factor of 0.018724 t.ha.h.ha/MJ/mm, suggesting greater vulnerability to erosion due to their acidic nature and lower fertility. The spatial distribution of soil types and their erodibility factors highlights significant implications for agricultural productivity and environmental conservation. Dystric Nitosols, with their high fertility and good structure, support diverse crops and ecosystems. Effectiv

keywords:

Flood vulnerability, Imo State, Landslide susceptibility, Soil erodibility, Soil types

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