The latest status of nitrogen saturation on Kureha Hill, Toyama, Japan,
based on 20-year observations
Abstract
Excessive anthropogenic nitrogen fixation alters the nitrogen cycle and
increases nitrogen deposition, leading to nitrogen saturation, which
leads to forest decline and nitrate leakage into stream waters. Kureha
Hill in Toyama Prefecture, Japan, is considered to be in nitrogen
saturation, since many streams have contained high concentrations of
nitrate for more than 20 years. This study verified the latest status of
nitrogen saturation by comparing the latest data with 20-year
observational data. Results showed that the current nitrate
concentration in stream water is lower than that observed 20 years ago.
However, the C/N ratio of the soil between 12 and 18, indicates that
nitrogen saturation could take place. In addition, the net nitrogen
mineralization and net nitrification rate showed no significant change
from the past data. Based on the nitrogen leakage to the stream water,
Kureha Hill’s nitrogen saturation was found to be less intense; however,
its potential to produce nitrate has been unchanged for 20 years.