Overview of the Anthropogenic Causes of Soil Erosion in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria

The incidence of gully erosion in Auchi, Edo State has assumed alarming proportions thereby gaining national recognition as an ecological disaster zone. The aim of this paper is therefore to examine some of the human causes of this menace and its impact on the population of the area and coping strategies adopted by individuals, community and the government. From field survey and observation, some of the anthropogenic causes found were: Dumping of refuse in water channels and drainages, Excavation of soil for building and other purposes, Poor siting of fences, Deforestation, Bush burning, Building and road Construction factors and Erection of residential structures without drainage and some of the possible control measures are: Environmental education, Environmental surveillance, the use of Vegetation and proper Solid waste management.