assessment of subsurface salinity on annual agricultural activities using geophysical method at Gada-Mashegu area north central Nigeria

Abstract

The Gada area, located in the Mashegu area of North-Central Nigeria is known to have significant agricultural practices with the aid of chemical fertilizers and herbicides which contribute to soil salinity. However, there is lack of detailed understanding of subsurface salinization and its distribution in the region. This study aims to assess the level of subsurface salinity and its implications for agricultural activities in the area. A 2D electrical resistivity survey was conducted to probe subsurface salinization. Five profiles were acquired using Werner Schlumberger array, two profiles were acquired in agricultural farm where chemical fertilizer, insecticides and herbicides are applied, one profile in an uncultivated native vegetative land and two profiles in an uncultivated abandoned (Deserted) land.