Investigating Soil Contamination In Ihiagwa Farmlands Due To Waste Disposal Near Owerri, Nigeria
Emmanuel Uche Eze
Department of Environmental Biology, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Nigeria
Ifeoma Grace Nwachukwu
Department of Environmental Biology, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Nigeria
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of waste disposal on the physicochemical quality of soil from farmlands near a dumpsite in Umuchima, Ihiagwa, located in Owerri West, Imo State, Nigeria. Soil samples were systematically collected from three different locations at two depths (0–15 cm and 15–30 cm) to evaluate variations in soil properties resulting from proximity to waste disposal. Key parameters analyzed include pH, bulk density, nitrate, nitrate nitrogen, phosphate, total chloride, sulphate, and electrical conductivity. Results indicate that the soil pH ranged from 4.9 to 6.9, suggesting a more acidic environment in soils near the dumpsite compared to control sites. Bulk density values were relatively consistent (1.18–1.33 g/cm³), indicating similar compaction across sites. Chemical analysis revealed elevated levels of nitrate (36.00–48.10 mg/kg), nitrate nitrogen (8.25–12.95 mg/kg), phosphate (9.30–36.00 mg/kg), total chloride (983.95–2368.77 mg/kg), and sulphate (0.00–15.00 mg/kg) in soils closer to the dumpsite. Electrical conductivity ranged from 98.0 to 212 µS/cm, reflecting increased ionic concentration near the waste disposal area. While the waste had no notable effect on the soil’s textural classification, the altered chemical properties point to significant contamination, potentially affecting soil health and agricultural productivity. These findings underscore the urgent need for sustainable waste management strategies to protect soil resources in peri-urban agricultural zones