ABSTRACT
The study investigates the physical, chemical properties and heavy metal (mercury and nickel) contents of soils in the Dumpsite (Federal Girls College Road) and the Control Site (New Agriculture Faculty, University of Benin). Soil samples were collected at varying depths 0-15, 15-30 and 30-45, and their properties were sent to the laboratory for analysis. The analyzed parameters are: pH, EC, Org. C, Org. M, T.N, Av. P, Exchangeable Cations, Heavy Metals (Hg and Ni) and Particle Size determination. The results revealed distinct differences in the soil characteristics between the two locations; the sand content fractions within the soil depths were found to range from 827.70 to 836.30 g/kg for the Dumpsite and 832.30 to 841.30g/kg for the Control Site ,with a mean value of 832.7 for dumpsite and 837.1 for control site and collectively fall within the classification of "Sandy loam." Silt content displayed no significant differences in the dumpsite soils, both locations exhibited a consistent decrease in silt content with depth and Clay content demonstrated an increase with depth in both locations, with the highest values observed in the 30-45 cm depth range. The pH ranges from very strongly acidic for Dumpsite, and strongly acidic - slightly acidic ranges for control site. Electrical conductivity (EC) showed significant differences across depths while Organic carbon and Organic matter content varied across depths. Total nitrogen, Exchangeable acidity, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and available phosphorus were higher in Control site when compared to Dumpsites across depths and showed various correlations with other chemical properties. Mercury and nickel content analyzed shows that Dumpsite recorded higher levels when compared to the Control and these values exceeded permissible critical limits set by DPR and WHO in soil. Correlation analysis demonstrated varying strengths of relationships between different soil properties, providing insights into the interplay of these factors. The findings highlight differences in soil characteristics between the two locations and underscore potential implications for plant growth and environmental health involving phyto and bioremediation as remedy strategies.
