Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Grass on bank and bottom

Is this a good time to sow grass seed on the area between the normal bank and the now lower level mark? Is so, what type of grass would work?
JRB

Most I have read and what I sowed was annual rye.
It grows well in cool weather and shiners will spawn in it. It also provides habitat for aquatic invertebrates when covered up.

BM,

Does the rye grass survive when (in the unlikely event we get lots of rain) it is covered by water? If so, that might be a really good thing to try until hot weather arrives.

ML :

It does not survive underwater but will stay green for a time then brown and then decay. We do plant rye on exposed banks when we draw the lakes down. It growes to about 8-10 in. high before the water comes up and covers it. We need a fast growing grass like rye to fit it in the time period.

In addition to being used by aquatic species it is full of non-aquatics and when the water comes up the small fish have a field day.

Here is part of a post by Dave W. on the point :

Dave Willis

Quote:

".... Newly flooded vegetation produces a tremendous food supply for the aquatic system. More nutrients, more zooplankton, more aquatic insects, better prey fish production, good habitat for age-0 fishes such as largemouth bass, etc.! In fact, ponds that have clay suspension typically clear after the vegetation is flooded and starts to decay. So, many positives. "

If you are worried about flooded vegitation surviving, plant japanese millet. It handles flooding well, germinates quickly and provides food for wildlife....especially waterfowl.

I think ewest's post by Dave Willis tells it. I had read that millet would last a while, but I am afraid of the seeds attracting too many birds. Doves would be OK. I am thinking that the grass uses up the excessive N2 on the bottom to help in preventing bottom weeds from growing.

Sounds like it would be good for the grass shrimp too and probably Gambusia. I've still got a couple of months left for rye and will try it in the exposed areas. Thanks for that post from Dr. Dave.

One other point which fits in with Dave's comment which I found recently while checking on fatheads is their use of newly flooded grass to spawn and hide in.

Thanks for all the input I have other needs and will spend some time reading other sections. Better late than never may be the motto for this pond.
JRB