AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL METHODS OF AGRICULTURAL WASTES

Abstract

Treatment of Agricultural wastes were conducted on three farms and two companies in Akure, Nigeria. (i.e FUTA, FCAA, and JOFA farms and Fembo Nigeria Limited and Bacita Sugar Company). Waste handling methods of the establishment surveyed were studied. The environmental consequences are discussed, for proper management of Agricultural wastes to prevent pollution of environment or receiving stream. Samples from the visited farms and companies were collected and analysed for the determination of parameters that can aid in assessment of pollution levels. The mean values of 174.1Mg/I of hardness, 97.5Mg/1 of chloride, 76 4% of organic matter, 10.0Mg/1 of Iron, 247.5Mg/1 of manganese, 190.2Mg/1of calcium, 206.6Mg/1 of sodium, 202.7Mg/1 of potassium, and 19.7Mg/1 of zinc were determined. Also the effects of Agricultural wastes on soil and receiving stream were investigated. A mean pH value of 8.0 was discovered. Depletion of dissolved oxygen (DO) from 6.5Mg/1 to 4.5Mg/1 reduction of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) from 570Mg/1 to 350Mg/1 and high metals determined from the receiving stream are evidences of stream pollution. In most of the establishment visited, no treatment is administered before waste disposal. Odours, flies and mosquitoes constitute a common nuisance in their vicinities. It is recommended that measures be taken in treatment and management of Agricultural waste to minimise environmental pollution. Treatments suggested include the use of storage pit, stabillization ponds, activated sludge processes, anaerobic digestion, composting and possibility of waste re-use.