Assessment of Fertility Status, Degradation Rate and Vulnerability Potentials of Soils of Selected Sites in Makurdi Area of Benue State-Nigeria

This study evaluates the fertility, degradation rate, and vulnerability of soils in selected sites in Makurdi area of Benue State, Nigeria. The objectives were to assess the soil fertility status, determine the rate of soil degradation and vulnerability, and suggest management strategies to improve soil quality and productivity. A total of 60 composites soil samples were collected from six sites using a systematic grid design, at 0 – 30 cm depth. The samples were analyzed for soil physical and chemical properties. Descriptive statistics tools were used for the analysis with SPSS software. Soil degradation and vulnerability were assessed using the Soil Degradation Rating and Soil Vulnerability Potential frameworks. Results indicate that the soils are predominantly loamysand texture, Soil bulk density ranged from 1.35 - 1.46 gcm-3, gravimetric water content ranged from 12.95–20.53%, while saturated hydraulic conductivity ranged from 3.05-6.73 x 10-3 cm hr-1. Soil pH varied between 6.51 and 6.78.Organic matter content ranged from 28.9 - 31.3 g kg-1. Total nitrogen content ranged from 0.30 to 3.80 g kg-1. Available phosphorus content varied between 1.79 and 3.5 mgkg-1 across the soils of the study area. The exchangeable bases of soils were in the order of Ca2+>Mg2+>Na+>K+ on the exchange complex. Whereas, the physical properties of the study area suggest moderate to high soil degradation rating and vulnerability potential the chemical properties suggest soil with moderate to low soil degradation rating and vulnerability potential. These differences highlight the importance of considering multiple soil health dimensions, not only chemical but also physical and biological, for a comprehensive assessment. Continuous monitoring and sustainable land management practices are recommended to maintain these soil qualities and prevent degradation escalation.