ASSESSMENT OF DEFORESTATION AND SOIL DEGRADATION IN OKEAGI, MOPA MURO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of deforestation on soil degradation in Okeagi, Mopa Muro LGA, Kogi
State, Nigeria, by analyzing soil physical and chemical properties alongside vegetation cover. Ninety soil
samples were taken across three deforestation levels (high, moderate, low), with measurements including soil
texture, bulk density, pH, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, and exchangeable cations. Bulk density, pH,
organic matter (via Walkley-Black method), nitrogen (Kjeldahl method), and phosphorus (Bray-1 extraction)
were evaluated. Vegetation cover was assessed using the Shannon-Wiener index. Results showed that areas with high deforestation had a 25% reduction in organic matter, 30% less nitrogen, 20% less phosphorus, and an increase in soil acidity (pH from 5.8 to 5.0). Bulk density rose from 1.41 g/cm³ to 1.52 g/cm³, indicating soil compaction. Vegetation diversity was also lower in highly deforested areas (H' = 1.2) compared to areas with low deforestation (H' = 2.3). Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and Pearson correlation, confirmed significant differences in soil properties, with strong negative correlations between deforestation and organic matter (r = -0.85) and phosphorus (r = -0.82). Multiple regression analysis identified deforestation intensity
and bulk density as key predictors of soil quality. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) highlighted sand content and bulk density as major factors contributing to soil degradation. The study concludes that deforestation severely impacts soil quality, reducing fertility and agricultural productivity. Recommendations include reforestation, agroforestry, and policies to control deforestation, with local community engagement essential for success.