Soil loss estimation using Rusle model and geo-spatial technology in the basement complex of Akure, southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Soil loss estimation has been carried out using the revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) model and geo-spatial technology in the basement complex of Akure, Southwestern Nigeria. The objectives are to predict average annual rate of soil erosion and address the menace of erosion in the area. Geologically, the area is underlain by the basement complex rocks of Southwestern Nigeria. Meteorological data, soil information, remote sensing data and digital elevation model (DEM) formed the data base. Three Landsat images of the study area covering 1987, 1997 and 2017, with 30 m spatial resolution were deployed using ArcGIS spatial analyst tool. The RUSLE parameters; Rainfall Erosivity Factor, Slope Length and Steepness Factor, Soil Erodibility Factor, Cover and Management Factor and Support Practice Factor were assessed in a GIS (Geographic Information System) environment. The soil loss was classified into low, moderate, high and very high level of severity. The results showed that soil erosion has moderately increased due to anthropogenic effects over the years.