Determination of Heavy Metals Content and Physico- Chemical Parameters in Soil from Tsamawa, Kaita and Kofar Sauri Irrigation Sites

Abstract

This research determined heavy metals (Cu, Fe, Cd, Cr, Pb, Ni, Mn, Zn) and physicochemical parameters in soil samples from irrigation sites in Tsamawa (Kano), Kaita, and Kofar Sauri in Katsina. Soil pH ranged from 6.05 in Tsamawa (KISS) to 6.30 in Kofar Sauri (KUSS). Water holding capacity varied between 40.65% in KUSS to 75.53% in Kaita (KSS), while cation exchange capacity ranged from 4.33 Cmol/kg (KUSS) to 6.43 Cmol/kg (KSS). Organic carbon was highest in KSS (2.43), followed by KISS (1.62), and lowest in KUSS (1.39). Organic matter values were 4.20 (KSS), 2.80 (KISS), and 2.40 (KUSS). Soil textures were clay-loam (KSS: 52.2% clay, 32.4% sand, 15.4% silt), sandy-clay-loam (KISS: 62.0% sand, 22.3% clay, 15.7% silt), and sandy-loam (KUSS: 70.3% sand, 14.4% clay, 13.8% silt). Heavy metal concentrations exceeded FAO/WHO limits for Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn. KSS had the highest Cd (1.443 mg/kg), Cu (3.882 mg/kg), and Pb (1.749 mg/kg), while KUSS showed elevated Cr (2.948 mg/kg), Ni (1.193 mg/kg), and Zn (1.701 mg/kg). KISS had the lowest contamination. Fe and Cu remained within safe limits. The findings indicate potential health and environmental risks, requiring remediation and further investigation into pollution sources.