<p dir="ltr">This data encompasses data from denitrification experiments performed at the University of Pretoria. Anoxic batch experiments were performed to determine the optimum C/N ratio for denitrification using sawdust and acetate as carbon sources when paired with a pond sediment derived bacteria inoculum. The denitrification process was then monitored under optimum conditions for 24 hours. Key parameters monitored included nitrate and nitrite concentrations, TOC concentrations, as well as cell growth through optical density measurements. For column experiments fed continuously with 2 L nitrate contaminated feed daily over a period of 30 days, the key parameters monitored included effluent nitrate, nitrite and TOC, as well as microbial diversity variations across filter columns utilizing native and inoculated bacteria. This research highlights the role of the carbon source and bacteria pairings during the maturation of slow sand filter systems. </p>