Abstract

Introduction-Ground water is an important water resource for agricultural production in other to meet global food demand as a result of increase in human population coupled with reduction in agricultural land. Aim-The aim of this research was to assess the ground water quality of lowland areas of Selected Local Government Area of Kebbi State. Methodology-Water samples were collected in triplicates and blended together to form a representative sample. The samples were taken from a 75 cl clean water bottle with a stopper. Parameters analysed includes pH, Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Total Dissolved Solid (TDS), Electrical Conductivity (EC), Residual sodium carbonate (RSC), Carbonate (Co₃^-1) and Bicarbonate (HCo₃^-1). Data obtained was subjected to descriptive statistics to compare the differences that existed within and between the sampling areas. Result-Result obtained shows that TDS was 24 Mg/l^-1, pH 6.3, EC 268dsm^-1, Ca (1.8mgl^-1), Mg (1.14mgl^-1), K (0.6mgl^-1) and Na (2.3mgl^-1). The water was categorized as fresh and therefore suitable for irrigation without any restriction. Conclusion-Based on the high concentration of Na ion (2.3mgl^-1) in the water under study compared with other soluble salts, EC value of 268dsm^-1 and SAR value of 1.76mgl^-1, the water has the potential to become saline and sodic. In view of that, frequent but light water applications should be the best practice to prevent further accumulation of salts on the soil surface. Irrigation could also be done either in the morning or late in the evening so as to reduce the rate of evaporation

Keywords

Electrical conductivity, ground water, Kebbi, saline and sodic