Investigating Shoreline Migration due to Sand Mining in Some Communities of Yenagoa Local Government Area using GIS and Remote Sensing

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of sand mining activities on some host communities within Yenagoa. The mining activities are considered to include the whole chain, from the dredging (mechanical or manual) to the end user (reclamation, filling, or construction). Impacts are assessed under categories ranging from environmental to infrastructural and ground damage. The methods of study include physical onsite observations and quick field assessments of soil type in areas directly connected with the river sand mining activities, and use of GIS and remote sensing techniques. Results show a direct link between the sand mining activities and damages to infrastructure, the natural environment, and shoreline migration. There is a steady increase in bare-land (i.e., land cover removal) and river expansion with increasing mining sites and dumpsites from 1990 to 2021.