Environment & Ecosystem Science (EES)

This study investigated the effects of flooding and post-flood irrigation on soil properties (soil fertility and salinity) along the Kamanda River in Kiru LGA Kano State, Nigeria. The region, characterized by a distinct wet and dry season, supports both rain-fed and irrigated agriculture, making it crucial to understand how flood-related processes influence soil quality. Soil samples were collected from four land-use categories (irrigated upland, irrigated lowland, unirrigated upland, and un irrigated lowland) at 0 to 30 cm depth. The results showed that all sampled sites had a sandy loam texture, with sand content ranging from 50.47% to 69.13%, silt content from 27.27% to 42.60%, and clay content from 3.61% to 7.60%. The soils had a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.23-6.66) and moderate fertility, with organic carbon content ranging from 0.35% to 0.67%, total nitrogen from 0.14% to 0.18%, and available phosphorus from 11.29 mg/kg to 24.56 mg/kg. The cation exchange capacity (CEC) ranged from 3.79 cmol/kg to 6.38 cmol/kg, with exchangeable calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium varying across land uses. Salinity indicators, including electrical conductivity (0.011-0.022 dS/m), exchangeable sodium percentage (2.55-8.74%), and sodium adsorption ratio (<1), remained within acceptable limits. However, higher exchangeable sodium percentage values in irrigated lowlands suggest potential sodium accumulation. The study highlights the importance of sustainable land and water management practices to preserve soil quality and ensure long-term agricultural productivity in the region. The findings underscore the dual influence of flooding and irrigation on soil properties, suggesting the need for adaptive soil and water management practices to maintain long-term productivity in flood-prone agricultural landscapes.