Anthropogenic Activities and Stream Disappearance in the Middle Enyong Basin of South-Eastern Nigeria: APerceptual Approach
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Anthropogenic activities responsible for stream disappearance were examined in the Middle Enyong Basin of Southeastern Nigeria. Interview and structured questionnaire was used to collect data on the anthropogenic activities that may contribute to disappearing streams in the study area. Secondary data sources were both published and unpublished materials including existing maps of the Enyong Basin. It was observed that man has been the major cause of stream disappearance through his various activities. Farming on stream slope, mining, deforestation, bush burning and road construction have been the major human activities responsible for stream disappearance. This was confirmed by hypothesis testing. The research shows that alternative sources of water have reduced the impact of stream disappearance to some extent, although it is felt as a burden in terms of the economic power of sourcing for alternative water. It is argued that if environmental education to the people, dredging of the major stream and diversification of economy is done, it can abate such catastrophic occurrence.
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