Investigating and Mapping the Terrain, and Analysis of Soil Particles in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, South East Nigeria

Abstract

This paper studies the nature of the terrain and analyzes soil particles in Awgu Local Government Area, Enugu State South East Nigeria. Awgu Local Government Area is made up of eighteen (18) communities which are Agbogugu, Isu-Awa, Ituku, Ihe, Ogbaku Ndiagu, Owelle, Ogugu, Agbudu, Amaowelle, Mmaku, Ugbo, Obiagu, Mgbidi, Ugwueme, Ugwuokpara, Awgu, Awgunta and Mgbowo. This study was carried out using geographical information system (GIS) analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) to map and analyze the terrain and soil particles respectively. The study area was classified using the concept of land capability and suitability classification of Klingebiel and Montgomery (1961). The slope angles of the four major slope segments were measured and determined in the field. Soil samples were collected within each of the four slope zones and were analyzed for their particle sizes, texture, organic matter, Cation-exchange capacity, N, Na+, KCl, Ca+, C, Mg+, among others. The soils vary within the scarp slope and slope segments. The dominant crops within the slope-soil zones were identified. The study showed that elevation, slope angle, soil characteristics influences land related socio – economic activities in the study area. Recommendations and remedial measures were suggested for optimal utility of lands, for effective and efficient land use planning in the study area and other similar areas of same undulating highlands and lowlands. Constructions should be in alignment with the slopes. Unsupervised excavation and mining should be discouraged. Community participation is very essential and should be encouraged in a bid to conserve the environment.