Soil resources of Saboba-Chereponi district: An assessment for Agricultural Production

Abstract

Evaluation of the soil ofSaboba-Chereponi District for agricultural purposes was carried out in May 1999. Field visits across most parts of the District were made to examine and sample the soil at selected locations. The soil environmental conditions and physical properties were examined and samples analyzed to determine their fertility status. The soils have severe physical limitations, which render them marginal for any heavy investment in agricultural production. Most ofthe soils are concretionary and underlain at shallow depths by iron pan or rock. Agricultural activities in the District seem to be enhancing the exposure of these iron pans and, hence, accelerating the degradation of the soil. A close examination of the problem shows that unless effective managerial practices are put in place, this irreversible degradation of the soil will render large tracts of! and uncultivable with serious implication on the livelihood of the farming community. Based on the study, recommendations were made on discouraging the use of tractors to prevent widespread exposure ofiron pan arid rather encourage the use of bullocks for ploughing. Crop residue, manure and fertilizer should be judiciously used to improve soil productivity, and the possibility of creating water reservoirs along the Oti river to irrigate the vast plains for rice and vegetable cultivation should be exploited.