12. MISC. PUBLICATION 290, U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 
from going downhill as fast as it can and carrying much of the 
soil with it. Forests and well-sodded pastures hold back more rain 
water and more soil on steep slopes than denuded woodlands or 
overgrazed ranges. 
Foresters know that the preservation of vegetative cover on water- 
sheds will not absolutely prevent fioods. ‘Their research findings 
and observations do demonstrate that the retarding effect of such 
cover can greatly lessen the amount of run-off pouring into tribu- 
taries and main stream channels during a short period. Also, they 
FIGURE 8. 
Island Lake Camp, Shoshone National Forest, Wyo. 
know that by affording adequate protection to the soil, much silt 
can be kept out of the rivers. Forests, therefore, exert two powerful 
controls on the height of flood crests. 
In any national plan for flood control, forestry will play an im- 
portant part. Good forestry practices may be used with other soul- 
conserving and water-holding measures to help control the waters 
at their sources. Engineering works, such as dams, dispersion basins, 
levees, and spillways, may prov ide down-stream protection. The 
Forest Service in company with other bureaus within the Department, 
is represented on the Flood Control Coordinating Committee of the 
Department of Agriculture. 
RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES AND FACILITIES 
Campers, sportsmen, and seekers after health, rest, and recre- 
ation find that the national forests offer unrivaled opportunities for 
outdoor hfe and enjoyment. Popularity of these great forest play- 
