Soil Salinity and Heavy Metal Contamination in Soil: Impacts on Ecosystem Sustainability in Kurugu, Gombe State, Nigeria

Abstract

Soil salinity and Heavy metal contamination are key conservational challenges that disturb farming output besides environmental sustainability. This study examines the impact of soil salinization and heavy metal contamination accumulation on different land uses in Kurugu, Kwami Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria. A total of 42 composite samples of soils were collected and analyzed for key physicochemical parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), bulk density, organic matter (OM), and organic carbon (OC). Additionally, heavy metal concentrations of arsenic (As), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) were examined. The findings revealed that soil pH ranged from 6.87 to 7.99, while EC values varied between 137 and 915 µS/cm, signifying fluctuations in salinity levels. Bulk density ranged from 1.18 to 1.74 g/cm³, OM content varied between 3.26% and 4.50%, and OC levels were between 1.89% and 2.61%. Heavy metal concentrations were within regulatory limits, with As ranging from 0.000 to 0.550 mg/kg, Cu from 1.027 to 7.055 mg/kg, Cd from 0.039 to 0.710 mg/kg, Cr from 0.154 to 0.427 mg/kg, and Pb from 0.000 to 0.113 mg/kg. Though they have not exceeded the hazardous levels, long-term accumulation could pose risks to soil health and agricultural viability. The study highlights the emergent threat of soil degradation due to salinity and heavy metal contamination, which restricts land productivity and contributes to food insecurity. It recommend that policymakers incorporate soil health assessments into land management strategies, administer environmental regulations, and implement remediation measures. Continuous monitoring and sustainable soil management practices are essential to maintaining soil fertility, ensuring food security, and preserving ecosystem balance in Kurugu and beyond.