Edaphic status along altitudinal gradients of Bagale hills forest reserve, Adamawa State, Nigeria

An extensive soil survey of the Bagale Forest Reserve, an old reserve in North East Nigeria was conducted, to ascertain its soil status because of exposure and vulnerability to various anthropogenic activities which have been exacerbated by climate change over time. Five fragments within the altitudinal gradients were selected using LANDSAT ETM+ satellite imagery from Google earth. The fragments selected as samples include Tudunwada (<200m), Holin (200-300m), Modire (300-400m), Lugga (400-500m) and Wurodole (>500m) above sea level. Composite soil samples were collected and sent to the laboratory for analysis. Physical properties of the soil revealed a preponderance of sand (84%), and low percentages of silt (4%), clay (6%) while pores spaces ranged between 28.80-39.49% in both surface and sub-surface. Chemical properties revealed low pH (5.4-6.09), EC (0.06-.10m3m-1), percentage base saturation ranged between (54.08-85.38). The results showed variations in soil properties in the lower, mid and high elevations of the gradient. However, the ANOVA revealed no significant difference in same. The soil of this area will require adjustments and interventions to be able to sustain this forest reserve.