Umudike Journal of Engineering and Technology

The study was carried out to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of Kalgo soils in Kebbi state, Northwestern Nigeria. The nature of soils of the study area has not been investigated and hence their characteristics are therefore unknown. This study apart from revealing inherent properties of the soil, it will also serve as reference point for other research works. Soil samples were taken at depth of 15, 30 and 45cm for determination of physical properties that include soil texture, moisture content, bulk density and porosity. Samples were also taken to the laboratory for the determination of chemical properties that include soil pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), organic carbon, organic matter, total Nitrogen and available Phosphorus. The texture of the soil was found to be loamy sand from the sieve analysis result. The maximum and minimum dry bulk densities were found to be 1.63 and 1.45respecively. The maximum dry bulk density obtained (1.63) is below the critical bulk density limit (1.80gcm^-3) for the soil type under study. The result shows the highest pH of 6.1 and the lowest pH of 5.5 which means the soil is slightly acidic (5.6-6.8) and this also indicated that pH value of the soil is below the normal pH range of Agricultural soil of (6.5-8.4). The values of the organic carbon (0.56-0.08%) and organic matter content (0.97-0.14%) obtained from the study are very low. The level of CEC (4.12-3.76cmol), total Nitrogen (0.081-0.063%) and available phosphorous (0.57-0.52mg are also low and this indicated poor nutrients fertility in the soil. The study recommends the application of agricultural limestone to increase the soil pH and also application of compound fertilizers or organic manures that are rich in Nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium to improve the nutrient status of the soil.