Impact of Newly Constructed Roads on Adjoining Soil Properties in Tinapa Resort, South-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Road construction often results in the displacement of animals and plants that may not be recovered, and the long-term consequences limits productivity of roadside biota due to exposure of sub-soils, reduction in water holding capacity by the soils, and compacting soil materials which makes it difficult for roadside vegetation to regenerate. We evaluated the impact of newly constructed roads on adjoining soil properties in Tinapa Resort, Nigeria, by comparing soil properties adjoining roads with those of relatively undisturbed secondary forest. The levels of soil organic matter, total nitrogen and cation exchange capacity were substantially higher in relatively undisturbed secondary forest soils than in soils adjoining the road. Thus, sustainable infrastructural development should involve a restoration of disturbed tracts of land adjoining road sides after construction to forestall degradation.

Key Words: Road construction, biomass production, soil properties, relatively undisturbed secondary forest, adjoining road.