They are often the best means of carrying surface water runoff out of a field. Waterways can contribute significantly to improving water quality by reducing sediment load and by preventing runoff of phosphorus and nutrients into water bodies. In addition, protect your water quality by shutting off the sprayer before crossing the waterway and emphasize to commercial applicators that they must do so as well. The grasses in waterways, the shape of waterways, and the type of outlet structure are important components of successful waterways. Grasses in waterways reduce the impact of raindrops and protect soil particles from being dislodged and eroded.
Vegetation also slows the flow of water runoff.
The shape of waterways plays a major role in their efficiency. Waterways also should have a flat bottom channel that follows the natural drainage pattern of the watershed and should be shallow enough so that they can be easily crossed with farm equipment. In addition, waterways require a structure or dam at the outlet to stabilize them. Outlet structures prevent gullies and gulches from cutting back into waterways, and they are recommended where the runoff empties into a creek or ditch. You should plan to make routine inspections of waterways and be prepared to perform periodic maintenance to keep them in optimum condition.