Geomorphological Parameters as Correlates of Channel Erosion in River Ajilosun in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti, Nigeria

Abstract

The paper examined the relationship between geomorphological parameters and channel erosion in River Ajilosun in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. Data on geomorphological parameters and channel erosion of the River Ajilosun were generated through direct field measurements using tape measure, ranging pole and a piece of flat board. Some of the variables were also derived through simple linear mathematical relationships. Analysis of the various data was done with both descriptive and inferential techniques. The result of the analysis showed that channel erosion exhibited spatial variation across and along the longitudinal profiles of River Ajilosun and also between the concrete-channelised and the alluvial reaches of the river. The result of the analysis also revealed both positive and negative correlations between the geomorphological parameters and channel erosion in the river. The measures suggested for controlling channel erosion in River Ajilosun included effective channel and slope management, improvement of the channel capacity retention of channel bank vegetation and protection of the valley side vegetation among others.