Background of the Study
Deforestation is a critical environmental issue that has significant implications for water runoff and flooding in many parts of Nigeria, including Lokoja Local Government Area (LGA) in Kogi State. Deforestation results from both legal and illegal logging activities, agricultural expansion, and urbanization. As forests are cleared, the natural processes that regulate water retention, filtration, and flow are disrupted, leading to increased surface runoff. This, in turn, exacerbates flooding risks, as the soil's ability to absorb rainfall is significantly reduced. Additionally, the loss of trees, which act as natural barriers to floodwaters, makes communities more vulnerable to flood disasters, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas. This study will explore how deforestation in Lokoja LGA has affected water runoff and contributed to flooding, particularly during the rainy season (Ibrahim & Musa, 2023).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Deforestation in Lokoja LGA has contributed to increased water runoff and more frequent flooding events. The reduction in tree cover has made it difficult for the environment to manage stormwater, increasing the likelihood of soil erosion and flooding. Despite efforts to mitigate flooding, the continuous loss of vegetation cover remains a significant challenge. This study seeks to assess the extent of deforestation in Lokoja and its impact on water runoff and flooding, with the goal of offering practical recommendations for flood management in the area.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
• To examine the extent of deforestation in Lokoja LGA and its contribution to increased water runoff.
• To assess the relationship between deforestation and flooding in the area.
• To recommend strategies for reducing flooding risks related to deforestation in Lokoja LGA.
1.4 Research Questions
• How has deforestation affected water runoff in Lokoja LGA?
• What is the correlation between deforestation and flooding in Lokoja LGA?
• What strategies can be implemented to mitigate flooding caused by deforestation in Lokoja LGA?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
• H1: Deforestation has significantly increased water runoff in Lokoja LGA.
• H2: The loss of vegetation cover has led to an increase in flooding events in the area.
• H3: Reforestation and sustainable land-use practices will reduce water runoff and flooding in Lokoja LGA.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it will contribute to a deeper understanding of the environmental consequences of deforestation in Lokoja LGA, particularly concerning water runoff and flooding. The findings will inform local authorities and environmental organizations about the importance of forest conservation in flood management. Furthermore, this research will provide practical recommendations for mitigating flooding, helping to protect lives, property, and infrastructure (Ibrahim & Musa, 2023).
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on Lokoja LGA, with an emphasis on how deforestation has impacted water runoff and flooding. It will consider both urban and rural areas within the LGA. Limitations may include the availability of long-term data on deforestation rates and flooding patterns in the region.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
• Deforestation: The removal or destruction of forests, leading to a decrease in the area covered by trees.
• Water Runoff: The flow of excess water from precipitation over the land surface, which cannot be absorbed by the soil.
• Flooding: The overflow of water onto normally dry land, often caused by excessive rainfall or runoff.
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