A REVIEW OF THE CAUSES, EFFECTS AND WAY OUT OF SOIL EROSION ON AGRICULTURAL LANDS

¹Brai Marcellus A, & ²Ehiomogue P.

¹Department of Sciences, National Institute of Construction Technology (NICT), Uromi Edo State

²Department of Agricultural Engineering, Michael Okpara University, Umudike

Email: maxcellusng6@gmail.com, 

ABSTRACT

The paper herein is an overview of the factors responsible for erosion on agricultural land, some of the factors are: overgrazing, heavy tillage operations, deforestation, poor soil conservation practices, etc. This occurs as a result of the erosive forces of wind and water on agricultural lands. It also explains the effects of soil erosion on the productivity of the land and strategies of controlling and reducing these effects on the land. Strategies such as proper soil, crop and vegetation management are considered. Also the use of mechanical methods such as terracing, bunding, filling and treatment of gullies are also described as means of controlling erosion on agricultural lands.

Keywords: Soil Erosion, Causes, Effects, Soil Management, Crop Management, Terracing