Analysis of Soil Quality in a Deltaic Hydrocarbon Polluted Environment Niger Delta Nigeria

Aim: The study was aimed to ascertain the damage done by an oil spill on the soils of Ogbia area in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta, Nigeria.

Study Design: The study adopted the experimental research design which entailed the use of field measurements and a control site. Three communities which are Elebele, Imiringi and Otuasega were used for the study. At each of the sample locations, three random spots were augered at two depth-levels (Top Sample (T), 0 – 15 cm; Bottom Sample (B), 15- 30 cm), with the aid of an auger to collect the samples for laboratory analysis. The parameters of interest to the study are TPH, THC, Organic Matter, THF, THB, pH, sand, silt clay and soil texture and these were analysed using standard techniques as recommended by DPR.

Results: The study revealed that there is a noticeable effect of oil exploitation activities on soil quality within the study area, In the case of THC, the result revealed that the level of THC in the sampled communities was higher than that of the non spill site, hence the presence of hydrocarbon which has caused the pollution of the soil. Organic matter content of the soil also reveals that the non-polluted site has more organic content than the sampled communities.

Conclusion: The study revealed that there is a statistically significant difference in soil quality of the selected communities and that of the non-spilt site. The study, therefore, recommended complete and total remediation of the soils in the area, as this will enhance the soil for increased food production.