Assessing the Influence of Soil Properties On Sediment Yield in River Mu, Benue State, Nigeria

This study assessed soil properties influencing sediment yield in River Mu, Benue State, Nigeria, to understand erosion, deposition, and channel stability dynamics. A field survey using stratified sampling divided the river into three strata; upper, middle, and lower courses, with 60 soil samples collected from both banks of the river. Soil properties analysed include particle size distribution, texture, bulk and particle density, porosity, moisture content, pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), organic matter, and hydraulic conductivity. Data were statistically analysed and sediment loss was mapped using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) in ArcGIS. The physical properties of the soil investigated showed sand in all the sample investigated are above 50% and textual class of sandy loam. There is low soil fertility and stability, with CEC ranging from 6 to 9 cmol/kg, indicating poor nutrient retention and weak soil structure. Sandy soils upstream had high erodibility, while downstream clay and silt soils promoted deposition but increased siltation and channel instability risks. Soil properties like porosity, cohesion, organic matter, and conductivity critically influenced erosion vulnerability. Low organic matter and weak aggregation made soils prone to detachment and sediment transport. The study concludes that soils in the River Mu catchment are generally low in fertility and stability, with weak nutrient retention (CEC 6–9 cmol/kg) and poor aggregation. Upstream sandy soils are highly erodible, while downstream clay and silt soils promote deposition but increase risks of siltation and channel instability. Soil porosity, cohesion, organic matter, and conductivity strongly influence erosion vulnerability, with low organic matter and weak structure making soils prone to detachment and transport. The study recommends improving soil fertility and stability through organic amendments (compost, manure), promoting conservation agriculture and agroforestry to strengthen soil structure and vegetation cover.