Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Environmental Resources in Taraba State, Nigeria Using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques (2000–2022)

The increasing exploitation of natural resources through agricultural expansion, deforestation, mining activities, settlement growth, and climate variability has accelerated environmental transformation and created challenges for sustainable resource management. This study assessed the spatio-temporal status of land, water, vegetation, soil, and atmospheric resources in Taraba State, Nigeria, using Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques between 2000 and 2022. A mixed-method and longitudinal research design was adopted, integrating field observations, GPS-based ground truthing, and multi-source satellite datasets. Soil characteristics, land use/land cover dynamics, surface water conditions, vegetation health, and atmospheric indicators were analyzed using ArcGIS-based spatial techniques. Results showed that surface soils were mainly sandy loam at 0 cm depth, while deeper layers (60 cm, 100 cm, and 200 cm) were dominated by sandy clay loam. Erosion susceptibility was highest in mountainous areas such as Gembu and Nguroje due to slope and soil conditions. Soil fertility assessment revealed relatively fertile alluvial soils in Karim Lamido, Lau, Gassol, and Ibi, while potassium deficiency occurred in Wukari, Donga, Ibi, Gassol, Jalingo, Ardo-Kola, and Bali LGAs. Water assessment revealed a drainage system dominated by River Benue and its tributaries, while NDWI values ranging from 0–0.6 indicated surface water availability, high moisture conditions, and seasonal flooding. Vegetation analysis showed that tree cover was the dominant land cover class, occupying approximately 16,631.84 km² (28.15%) of the state. NDVI values reached 0.9–1.0 in Gashaka, Kurmi, and Sardauna, with the highest vegetation performance recorded in 2022 (average NDVI = 0.89). Atmospheric analysis revealed variations in dust, black carbon, and aerosol concentrations associated with land degradation and biomass burning. The study concludes that increasing human activities are altering environmental resources and recommends integrated land use planning, sustainable resource management, and continuous GIS-based monitoring.