The Effects of Soil Erosion on Food Crop Production in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.68050/JAMS.2026.513Keywords:
Effects, Soil erosion, Food crop, ProductionAbstract
This study examines the effects of soil erosion on food crops production in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria. Soil erosion is the process through which the fertile topsoil is detached and transported by agents such as water, wind, or human activities. This environmental challenge removes the top topsoil, reduces soil fertility, organic matter, and moisture-holding capacity of soil thereby lowering agricultural productivity. The objectives of the study were clearly set out to include to: examine the causes of soil erosion, the major food crops cultivated, the effects of soil erosion on food crop production, the level of food security, and the effective soil erosion control measures suitable in the study area at present. To accomplish the set objectives, the researchers used both primary and secondary research methods to collect the data required for the study. In other words, the data required for this study were collected from both primary and secondary sources of data. At present (2026), the population of Auchi at 2.8% projection growth rate is 255,600 people Out of this projected population figure, 400 respondents (farmers) which represent 0.16% (zero point one six percent) of the population in the study area were considered. Following the above, four hundred questionnaires only were administered to farmers in the study area. The preliminary and actual field surveys revealed that there are 25 communities in the study area. The recognizance and actual field surveys also affirm that the population is not evenly distributed across the 25 communities in Auchi. The preliminary and actual field surveys revealed that there are 25 communities in the study area, and that the population is unevenly distributed across the study area. Flowing from the above observation, the questionnaires were distributed in the various communities in reflection of their population sizes. The data obtained were analysed using tables, graphs and, percentages. The results depict clearly the causes of soil erosion, the major food crops cultivated, the effects of soil erosion on food crop production, the level of food security, and the effective soil erosion control measures suitable in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria. Based on the findings of this paper, the following actionable policy recommendations are made: construction of modern drainage channels, construction of local barriers, planting of all-season green tropical tree crops and grasses, planting of all-season green imported trees, application of soil conservation techniques, reforestation, leaving crop residues behind, farmland tillage, application of fertilizers, implementation of green belts initiatives, check dams, bioengineering, runoff diversion structures, environmental sanitation, guided agricultural practices, permeable pavements, reduced tillage, watering and keeping the soil moist during dry spells/seasons and planting of drought resistant crops and grasses in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria.
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