What is a factor that can increase the potential for denitrification?

Denitrification is a microbial process that transforms nitrates in the soil into nitrogen gas, which is then released into the atmosphere. This process is facilitated by specific conditions that promote the activity of denitrifying bacteria.

Heavy rain events can significantly enhance the potential for denitrification because they lead to saturated soil conditions. When soils become saturated, there is reduced oxygen availability, creating anaerobic environments where denitrifying bacteria thrive. Additionally, the flooding of soils often increases organic matter decomposition, producing more substrates for these bacteria, further promoting denitrification. In contrast, well-drained soils typically do not retain sufficient moisture to foster the anaerobic conditions necessary for denitrification, while dry soil conditions and low temperatures would inhibit microbial activity overall.