Evaluation of Soil Degradation Status for Management of Soils of Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State

This study was carried out in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State during the dry Season of 2019 to evaluate the Degradation status for Management of soils in five (5) locations within Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State. The Locations were Orokam (Olukam), Ipole-Owukpa, Uleke, Ibagba and Itabono (Amala). Soil samples were collected at depths of 0-15cm, 15-30cm and 30-45cm from each location. The samples were analyzed using standard analytical procedures. The evaluated physical and chemical properties of the soils were compared with the Standard Indicator and Criteria for Land Degradation Assessment. The result obtained indicated levels of physical and chemical land degradation. For the physical degradation, most of the soils were moderately to very highly degraded. Chemically, the soils were very highly degraded with respect to Base saturation. Other soil chemical properties like the C.E.C, N.P and K. Biologically, Organic matter was very highly degraded in all locations and depths. Forms of soil degradation observed were actually fertility decline and loss of organic matter. It is recommended that the use of green manure, Organic matter, chemical fertilizer in their right proportion be adopted so as to maintain and improve the soil nutrient status for enhance crop yield.