MITIGATING SOIL EROSION AND ENHANCING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY IN BOKI L.G.A., CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA.pdf

Soil erosion presents a significant environmental threat to agricultural productivity in Boki Local Government Area (L.G.A.), Cross River State, Nigeria. This study explores the challenges posed by soil erosion on farming activities and assesses the effectiveness of various mitigation strategies aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity in the Boki LGA. It was hypothesised that there is no significant relationship between the severity of erosion menace and the decline in agricultural productivity within the Boki Local Government Area (L.G.A). Employing the survey research design, the study integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches to capture a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 384 farmers, interviews with agricultural officers, and community leaders, as well as the analysis of secondary data from government reports and satellite imagery. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were utilized to map the most erosion-prone areas, identify patterns of land degradation, and evaluate the success of erosion control measures. The findings reveal that soil erosion significantly reduces agricultural productivity in Boki L.G.A. by degrading fertile land, reducing arable farmland, and diminishing crop yields. Erosion is exacerbated by steep slopes and heavy rainfall, particularly in areas with insufficient vegetation cover. The study further highlights the socio-economic impacts of erosion, including the displacement of farmers, loss of income, and increased food insecurity in the sampled communities. However, evidence from the field demonstrates that mitigation efforts such as reforestation, the use of contour farming, and soil conservation techniques have shown promise in controlling erosion and improving farmland conditions. The research concludes that sustainable land management practices and government intervention are critical in addressing the ongoing challenges of soil erosion in Boki L.G.A. The study recommends increased investment in soil conservation programs, capacity-building for farmers, and the implementation of community-led initiatives to enhance agricultural resilience in the face of erosion.