IRRIGATION WATER QUALITY AND THE IMPACT ON CASH CROPS IN SAHEL SAVANAH ZONE OF NORTHERN NIGERIA

Water pollution is a global challenge; which can be defined as any impairment in its native characteristics by addition of anthropogenic contaminants to the extent that it either cannot serve humans for drinking purposes and/or support the biotic communities. The effect of agrochemicals on fresh water quality could render the water unsuitable for human and animal consumption, removal of agrochemical contaminants from water is possible, preventive measures to avoid pollution is however preferable. Based on these prevailing circumstances, this research was conducted to assess the physiochemical properties and agrochemical residues in water samples used on irrigated lands in North Eastern, Nigeria, to determine the chemical properties of the irrigation water in some locations of Bauchi State and to analyze data using statistical tools, and comparison of results with international and national water quality standards. Result shows that Boron values in the irrigation water were higher than tolerant values for cash crops including crops such as pear, grapefruit and lemon which will not thrive in the areas under consideration due to the high boron content of the water. Plants such as beans, date palm, onions, cabbage and lettuce are some of the crops that can readily be grown in North Easter part of Nigeria