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level. This keeps water from flowing across the earthen spillway for an extended period of time, which would otherwise leave it moist and vulnerable to severe erosion during heavy rains. The width of the spillway is determined by a complex set of calculations that takes into consideration local rainfall duration and intensity, the slope of the watershed, and the type of ground cover anticipated in the spillway. Vegetation Establishment Permanent native vegetation should be planted on the dam, spillway, terraces, waterways, and other disturbed areas as soon as possible after construction is completed. Utilize higher seeding rates in areas prone to erosion during the filling process and on steep slopes, particularly the front and back sides of the dam. Use a seed mixture of native grass, with emphasis on rhizomatous, sod-forming species. Native grasses produce a rigid, above- ground growth that provides excellent cover for wildlife, as well as an extensive, deep-reaching, fibrous root system that helps prevent soil erosion. Plants which are adapted to the on-site conditions and have proven wildlife values should be used whenever possible. NRCS and Commission Wildlife Division personnel can provide recommendations on what and when to plant. The pond banks should be planted with permanent vegetation to prevent erosion and provide an aesthetic setting for fishing and other activities. Emergent vegetation, such as cattails, bulrushes, and arrowhead, can be dug up in other ponds in early spring, when new shoots begin to show, and transplanted into shallow- water areas of your pond. Keep in mind the aggressive nature of these plants, particularly cattails, when considering transplanting them into your pond. They may spread more than you want and eventually require control methods. Establishing a cover crop of wheat, rye, oats, or sorghum, or allowing weeds to grow in the pond basin, is recommended before new ponds fill. This helps to stabilize the soil and keeps the water clear. When the cover crop and weeds are flooded, they provide a substrate on which aquatic organisms can grow. Subsequent 22 • Nebraska Game and Parks Commission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hand Seed, and if Possible, Harrow or Rake to Cover Seed Hand Seed, and if Possible, Harrow or Rake to Cover Seed POND BOTTOM POND BOTTOM NRCS and NRD personnel need to be contacted regarding dam construction, water control structures, and appropriate emergency spillways for various pond sizes and levels of dam hazard. See page 40 for additional information on aquatic vegetation establishment.