I seeded my new construction dam with Bahia grass and then covered it with "seed hay". This was in the Florida Panhandle in November. The seed didn't come up until the following spring but by mid summer the dam looked almost as good as the surrounding Bahia pasture. Now it's been almost 2 years and the old and new are blended together. It is drought tolerant once established and reseeds itself too.
When I have had to do any digging in the pasture or around the pond the Bahia grass root system has been.....impressive. Cheap to buy, good availability in my area, and its drought tolerance made it a good choice for me.
My horses seem to like it too!
Good luck!
