Analysis of Morphometric Traits and Ecological Threats in Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted in Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve, (SCFR) Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The aim was to analyse the morphometric traits of this area, using some relevant terrain attributes (elevation, slope and aspect) in ascertaining areas threatened by significant ecological problems such as flood, erosion and others. In terms of method of study, a digital elevation model (DEM) was purchased as a raster with longitude and latitude; geo-referenced, but re-projected to WGS, UTM zone 32 N in order to enhance data integration into the GIS interfaces. The surface operation tool of ArcGIS 9.3 spatial analyst extension was used to extract the different layers being elevation, slope and aspect. These were subjected to reclassification function in the same software to harmonise the units of measurement for integration into the same analysis environment. After reclassification, the layers were taken to map algebra environment to model erosion, flood hazards and possibility of siltation of streams, tributaries and wetlands in this area. Consequently, slope, elevation and aspect were the surface layers utilized for the single output map algebra.  The result confirmed the elevation of this area to be low-lying altitude above the mean sea level with Open Water, Sea Level Terrain, Beach Ridge Complex, Alluvial Plain Sands with Mangroves and Gently Undulating Coastal Plain Sands as the five significant terrain classes in SCFR. The result further revealed that areas without adequate vegetation cover recorded series of ecological hitches than areas with adequate vegetation cover. Specifically, the identified problems included water pollution, coastal erosion, land degradation, soil contamination, flood, habitat fragmentation, distortion of wetlands and siltation of streams, rills and tributaries which restriction of anthropogenic activities and adequate restoration measures in SCFR are strongly recommended for its sustainability.