Characterization, Land Capability and Fertility Classification of Soils Along Kpantinapu - Nukkai Toposequence in Jalingo, Taraba State

The objective of this study was to characterize the soils of the study area, deter- mine some soil properties and classify the soils according to USDA Taxonomic System. Coordinates of the Pedons were obtained using hand held Geographic Positioning System (GIS) and one (1) profile pit was dug at the upper, middle and lower slope respectively. Some soil physical and chemical properties were deter- mined using standard laboratory procedures. The results shows that the physical properties at the upper slope were dominated by sand with mean values ranging from 50 to 87%. Clay content increased with increase in profile depth and with decrease in slope along the toposequence (>35% clay). Soil pH were slightly acid to neutral across the slope and was statistically significant between the slopes. The soils had greater than 50% base saturation and were classified as Alfisols at the order level. The soils were classified as Typic Plinthustalfs, Typic Paleustalfs and Vertic Halpustalfs at the upper, middle and lower slope respectively. Capabil- ity class showed class C3(IIIse) at the upper slope while the lower slope was C3 (IIIws); and fertility class varied from moderately suitable (S2) to marginally suitable (S3). In order to attain food security and enhance agricultural productivi- ty and quality of life in the study area, close attention should be given to upper slope position to control the damaging effects of erosion and integrated nutrient management should be employed to improve the soil fertility of the land.