The vegetation provides surface cover to stop the raindrop splash and slow water flow. How it helps It reduces soil erosion. A vegetated area improves water quality by reducing the amount of sediment, nutrients and chemicals running off farmland. Protects areas such as dams, terrace backslopes or gullied areas when vegetation may be difficult to establish. Vegetation can be planted to provide small areas of nesting cover for birds and small animals.
Tech notes Protect the area from erosion with annual grasses until permanent cover is established.
Apply lime and fertilizer, if needed, in the top three inches of the soil before planting. Use proper rates and recommended seeding dates. Severely eroded areas may need a nurse crop like oats. Mow oats before they head out if possible. Mow high to avoid clipping the permanent seeding.