Publication: 02/06/2024
Page: 17-26
Volume 3 Issue 3
How to cite
Alhassaan, E., Saidu, I., Mshelia, A. D., Peter, Y. (2024). Assessing the socio-economic impacts of gully erosion on farming activities in northern Adamawa state, Nigeria. IRESPUB Journal of Environmental & Material Sciences, 3(3), 8-16. https://doi.org/10.62179/irespub-jems.v3i3.3
Ezekiel Alhassaan1, Ibrahim Saidu2 , Alfred D. Mshelia2 and Yohanna Peter2
1Mubi North Local Government Secretariat, Adamawa State
2Department of Geography Adamawa State University, Mubi
Abstract
Gully erosion is a significant environmental challenge in Northern Adamawa State, Nigeria, with profound socio-economic impacts on farming activities. This study assesses the extent and effects of gully erosion on the local farming communities. Using a combination of field observations, transect walks, and questionnaire surveys, data were collected from 400 farmers, with a 72.5% response rate. The study reveals that 94.2% of the respondents are aware of gully erosion in their areas, and 76.7% recognize its threat to their farmlands and residences. The results indicate that 33.3% of farmers have lost farmland, 20% have experienced soil quality degradation, and 12.5% have faced increased crop transportation costs due to gully erosion. The findings underscore the urgent need for intervention to mitigate the adverse effects of gully erosion on agricultural productivity and community livelihoods.
Keywords
gully erosion; socio-economic impacts; farming activities; soil degradation.
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