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. "