ABSTRACT
Effects of Tropical rainforest (TRF) conversion to agricultural land uses on water quality are important in terms of eutrophication of natural waters and its impact on human and livestock population. Rate of mineralization of soil organic carbon, and disruption in cycles of C and plant nutrients are major effects of TRF conversion with impact on water quality. Land use and farming systems play an important role in water quality. Impacts of TRF conversion have been evaluated for changes in soil properties, crop growth, and and on micro-climate. The objective of this report is to explain the impact of forest conversion on soil processes that affect quality of surface and sub-surface water. Examples used in the study are based on a large watershed management project conducted in sub-humid region of southwestern Nigeria. Tillage affects water quality by influencing the amount and type of sediment and sediment-borne pollutants.
