V2I8P46

Effects of Gully Erosion on the Vegetation Distribution in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State

Blessing U. Nnadi^1*, Godson C. Asuoha², Paulinus U. Okafor³, Igu Nwabueze⁴

Abstract

This work examined the effect of gully erosion on vegetation distribution in Idemili North L.G.A. of Anambra State, Nigeria. The research work adopted a survey design and included the use of both primary and secondary data. Plant species diversity survey, inventory and enumeration were undertaken in order to obtain baseline data for further analysis of this study. Primary data were collected from field. Five soil samples each from both gully site and non-gully site were collected and analyzed at Soil Science Laboratory of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Secondary data were elicited from published and non-published materials. Shannon Wiener diversity index was used to determine the diversity indices of the plant species in the area. Effects of gully erosion on vegetation were analyzed using Principal Component Analysis. The component matrix of the soil proprieties as well as plant diversity indices from the PCA isolated five components that together explained 91.825% variation in the effect of gully erosion on vegetation distribution. Based on the results, recommendations on strategies to curb the effects of the gully erosion in the study area especially on the vegetation distribution include maintenance of remnant vegetation along drainage lines, eliminating grazing, vegetation management, and engagement of both individuals and government in afforestation process amongst others.

Keywords:

Vegetation distribution, PCA, Specie diversity