Disking should be at right angles to the flow of water in the waterway. There are six grasses that well adapted to conditions in Illinois and make desirable vegetative covers in waterways. Tall fescue is a moderately winter-hardy grass that makes a good vegetative cover. It has been grown successfully in all parts of the state but is particularly suited to southern Illinois. In fact it is superior to other grasses in that area.
Seeds germinate readily and seedlings grow rapidly, thus establishing a quick cover.
Unfortunately, tall fescue is not a grass that attracts wildlife. When well established, it gives good protection to a waterway channel. Smooth bromegrass is also desirable because it attracts pheasants for nesting and roosting. It does best on fertile, well-drained soils. Southern strains are recommended for use in this state because they grow more profusely through the warm months of summer than do northern strains.