Fertility Status of Fadama Soils in Gantsare Village, Wamakko Local Government, Sokoto State As Affected by Cement Dust

Abstract

A study was conducted in Gantsare village, Wamakko local government, Sokoto state to determine the effect of cement dust emitted from Sokoto cement factory on the fertility of fadama soils. Soil samples were collected in June, 2008 from the eastern, northeastern, and southeastern parts of the village and Girabshi; a nearby village with least effect of the dust. The samples were collected at two depths (0-15 and 15-30 cm) using simple random sampling method. Randomized complete block design (RCBD) was employed, replicated three times, making a total of 24 samples. The samples were analyzed for pH, OC, CEC, total N, available P, exchangeable bases (Ca, Mg, K and Na) and particle size. Almost all parameters determined were found to be statistically significant (P < 0.01). OC was found to be lower in concentration in the areas closer to the factory; eastern partnortheastern part>Southeastern part>Girabshi village; 7.77>7.76>7.75>6.25 respectively, likewise CEC and exchangeable bases. The trend in the results observed may be attributed to possible adverse effects of
the dust on microbial population, reduction in the availability of some nutrients and a favour on the concentrations of exchangeable bases and CEC. The topsoils showed better results of all the soil chemical properties. The study recommends minimization of the amount of dust reaching agricultural soils and the use of phosphorus and nitrogen fertilizer supplements as soil management practices to enhance soil fertility status and enhance adequate crop yield in the area.

Key words:Cement dust, fertility status, fadama soils, soil chemical properties, soil management.