ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF LOWER USUMA DAM, FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY NIGERIA

Abstract

This research focuses the environmental impact of dam construction with case lower Usuma dam Abuja Nigeria. Life is dependent on water to live; plant vegetation, man and animal need it in various qualities and quantities to survive. Yet with the advancement of time and in the present technological age, water has been restricted and has become strategic in nature. Dams for examples are structures used in restraining this water from flowing rapidly in rivers and streams. They are constructed for the purpose of hydroelectric power, domestic water supply irrigation, navigation and recreation. Many dams in times past have been very successful, yet others have been disasters to life and property. The aim of this research is to access the environmental impact of lower usuma dam, with some objectives that justifies the broad aim of research .The method uses in data collection are primary and secondary source and the methodologies used in carrying out the project are questionnaire methods, oral interview and public health survey. While data collected are analyzed using charts and graphs. The results shown changes in river channel, flooding and channel erosion, land lost, land use changes, dam and the displaced people and the discussion on living condition of the people in the study area. These researches therefore study the environmental consequences in which dams and its construction can affect or deteriorate our environment which were not in existence before the construction of dam. And necessary recommended /suggestion were given.