Assessment of sediment yield using the erosion potential method (epm) in Yola South North-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Sediment yield assessment using Erosion Potential Method (EPM) is considered as one of the most suitable and accepted empirical model applied in soil erosion prediction study in the world. In Yola South LGA, North-eastern part of Nigeria volume of sediment loss on some three farmlands namely Mbamba, Bole and Yode pate areas were assessed using EPM method. Results revealed that erosion coefficient was generally high in all the areas with Bole has the maximum followed by Yolde pate and Mbamba. The annual volume of detached was higher in 2024 than in 2023 with Bole area recorded the highest increased value of 58, 451.79 m³/year, Mbamba 14, 902.61 m³/year and Yolde pate having 7,420.15 m³/year respectively. Similarly, real sediment production (m³/year) was increased from 2023 to 2024 as Bole recorded maximum increase of 4,846.89 m³/year then Mbamba 1,860.65 m³/year and Yolde pate 163.00 m³/year. These rapid sediments loss on the farmlands have affected crop production and yield which requires ardent effective control measures. In conclusion, EPM model gave satisfactory results in estimating the average soil erosion and annual average sediment productivity in the subsystem with an increase in sediment volume of soil from past to present defining the functionality and activeness of gully processes. It can be applied in Yola region and in the North-eastern part of the country.