Natural gas flaring affects microclimate and reduces maize (Zea mays) yield
2009
Odjugo, P.A.O. (University of Benin, Edo State (Nigeria). Dept. of Geography and Regional Planning) | Osemwenkhae, E.J. (University of Benin, Edo State (Nigeria). Dept. of Mathematics)
It is a common saying by farmers in the oil producing area of Niger Delta that gas flaring is a major reason for low maize yield. This paper reports the impact of natural gas flaring on microclimate and maize yield in the Niger Delta, using Ovade flare site as a case study. Experimental sites were located at 500 m, 1 km, 2 km and 70 km (control) from the flare site. Soil physico-chemical properties, air and soil temperatures (10 cm & 20 cm depths) rainfall and relative humidity were monitored. Physiological parameters measured were emergence rate, growth rate, leaf area index (LAI) and yield. The experiment was carried out in the 2005 and 2006 planting seasons. Time series and ANOVA were some statistical tools employed in analyzing the data. The results show that with rise in air and soil temperatures of the flare site, relative humidity, soil moisture and all the soil chemical parameters decrease toward the flare. The induced microclimati c condition, which impacted on the soil, reduced the yield of maize by 76.4%, 70.2% and 58.2% at 500 m, 1 km and 2 km, respectively. Maize production is not economically viable within 2 km from the flare site.
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