Proximity Mapping of Dump Site to Water Points in Gwallameji Village of Bauchi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was aimed at conduct a proximity mapping analysis of a dump site to water points in Gwallameji village of Bauchi state in order to identify potential environmental risks and propose effective management strategies for protecting the water sources in the area. The studies was conducted due to improper dumping of waste materials and soak away which leads to contamination of underground water within the study area. The study adopted Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques of which Google earth was use to acquire the imagery of the study area. The field data was obtained using handheld global positioning system (GPS). Questionnaire was used to collect data through administration and observations. Thought random sampling technique whereby many houses within the area of study were selected for the study. A total of 639 houses were sampled altogether. The major sources of ground water containment in the area were open discharge of domestic sewage, closeness of the dumpsite and the soak away to the source of water. The data was processed in ArcGIS 10.3 version and a map showing the proximity of water point to dumpsite was produces. The study recommended that the local community be engaged in the development and implementation of the management strategies.