<span class="h5">Objective 2.1: Manipulating N inputs<br />
</span><span class="h6">Leader: Dr Cecile de Klein (AgResearch)<br />
NZAGRC funding: April 2010 - June 2014</span> 
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This objective investigates ways to manipulate the N inputs into the pastoral system though plant breeding/selection and plant management options.
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<span class="h5">Objective 2.2: Manipulating nitrification processes<br />
</span><span class="h6">Leader: Professor HJ Di (Lincoln University)<br />
NZAGRC funding: April 2010 - June 2014</span>
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Comprehensive research undertaken in NZ has already demonstrated that nitrification inhibitors (NI) can provide an effective method for reducing N<sub>2</sub>O emissions from urine patches deposited on pasture. Research funded by NZAGRC will address the challenge of optimising inhibitor use so that their effectiveness and longevity is increased.
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<span class="h5">Objective 2.3: Manipulating denitrification processes<br />
</span><span class="h6">Leader: Dr Surinder Saggar (Landcare Research)<br />
NZAGRC funding: April 2010 - June 2014</span>
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Denitrification is the primary process of N<sub>2</sub>O production in New Zealand pasture soils. However, we lack a comprehensive, quantitative understanding of denitrification rates and controlling factors across agrosystems. This Objective will test and improve the latest microbiological and tracer techniques to identify pathways for reducing N<sub>2</sub>O production during denitrification and develop mitigation technologies that reduce N<sub>2</sub>O emissions by lowering N<sub>2</sub>O/N<sub>2</sub> ratio during denitrification.
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<span class="h5">Objective 2.4: N<sub>2</sub>O emissions and soil water status <br />
</span><span class="h6">Leader: Dr Steve Thomas (Plant &amp; Food Research)<br />
NZAGRC funding: April 2010 - June 2013</span>
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The aim of this research is to develop better fundamental understanding of the role that soil physical characteristics and changing soil water conditions affect N<sub>2</sub>O emissions, and use this knowledge to produce a scientifically robust and easily measurable relationship between soil water or aeration status and N<sub>2</sub>O. In turn, we will use this knowledge to help refine on-farm grazing and soil water management decision-making to minimise N<sub>2</sub>O emissions.<br />
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