This project is sponsored by the University of Ibadan and managed by the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources, University of Ibadan. Through the efforts of staff and students, over 7000 indigenous trees have been planted in the watershed of the Awba Dam reservoir. The Project will promote ecosystem rehabilitation and water catchment area protection.
The Awba Dam Watershed Rehabilitation Project is a mission-driven initiative aimed at restoring and preserving the health of the watershed surrounding Awba Dam. Central to this project is the pivotal role of indigenous tree planting in the catchment area affected by erosion and sedimentation.
Our mission is twofold: firstly, to address the pressing issue of soil erosion and sedimentation within the catchment area, and secondly, to restore the overall ecological balance and functionality of the watershed.
By strategically planting indigenous tree species, we aim to mitigate erosion and its detrimental effects on the catchment area. These trees, adapted to the local environment, possess robust root systems that firmly anchor the soil, preventing erosion and reducing sediment runoff into the dam.
Through the project, we endeavour to achieve the following key objectives:
1. Soil Stabilization: Indigenous trees play a vital role in stabilizing the soil in the catchment area, thereby minimizing erosion. The extensive root networks of these trees help bind the soil, reducing the risk of sedimentation and ensuring the long-term health of the watershed.
2. Water Quality Improvement: By intercepting surface runoff and acting as natural filters, the indigenous trees help to improve the quality of water entering Aba Dam. Their root systems trap and retain sediments, preventing them from reaching the dam and safeguarding its water resources.
3. Biodiversity Conservation: The project aims to enhance biodiversity in the catchment area by providing a suitable habitat for native flora and fauna. The newly planted indigenous trees create an ecosystem that supports a variety of plant and animal species, contributing to the overall ecological resilience of the watershed.
4. Climate Change Mitigation: The indigenous trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and mitigating climate change. They help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, foster a healthier environment, and contribute to the global efforts of carbon sequestration.
5. Community Engagement and Empowerment: The project promotes community participation and collaboration, recognizing the importance of local stakeholders in achieving lasting change. Through education, awareness campaigns, and capacity building, we empower the community to actively participate in the rehabilitation efforts and become stewards of their natural resources.
By combining the restoration of the catchment area through indigenous tree planting and fostering community involvement, the Awba Dam Watershed Rehabilitation Project strives to ensure the long-term sustainability of the dam and the ecological well-being of the entire watershed. Together, we can make a significant impact in preserving this invaluable natural resource for present and future generations.
STUDY AREA
The study area is located in the southern area of the University of Ibadan campus at an altitude of about 185 meters above sea level. It lies between Latitudes 7°25’58” N and 7°26’42” N and Longitudes 3°53’21” E and 3°54’26” E. The dam was constructed in April 1964 by the university community with the sole aim of storing water for domestic consumption, laboratory use and table fish culture. It is also used for hydrobiology and fisheries research purposes. However, the site had been converted from being a conventional water dam/reservoir to a tourism site in 2011.
Vegetation and drainage
The drainage area is 2.08 km2, and its drainage density is 1.93 km/km2. River Awba drains through a part of the academic area of the university especially the Faculties of Science and Social Sciences as well as the Departments of Petroleum and Agricultural Engineering and emptied its water into the University dam/reservoir that is very close to the Zoological Garden of the university. The dam on River Oba at the university has been silted up and overgrown by hydrophytes such as ferns and water weeds among which are Pistia stratiotes, Scirpus cubensis and Rhnchospora corymbosa.
Climate
The University of Ibadan is located in the northern limit of the lowland rain forest zone. It lies in a transitional zone between the rainforest and the derived savannah zone. The humidity is relatively dry with mean annual rainfall of about 1220mm of double peak during June and August which last for almost 8months (April to October) and dry season between November and March.
Geology and soil
The dam reservoir is underlain by quartzite outcrops which are evident near the dam. Other rock types within the campus are: Quartzite Schist, Augen Gneiss and Granite Gneiss.
Contact awbadamawbadam@gmail.com to get more information about the project