How much DMOZ is too much DMOZ?

Importing ODP dumps

[stuntdubl]

I am in the process of developing a directory for a niche subject, and am considering importing a ODP dump to initially populate it.

I've seen many times, that when this data is used the directory's PR gets Zapped. If I modify the DMOZ data, how much modification would be sufficient to dodge this "dupe content" penalty?

Are there any other good ways to populate a directory on an semi-automated basis?

Since this is my first major attempt at a directory, any other suggestions are of course appreciated.

[hutcheson]

Once you start making your own changes, the modified directory pages should show in in Google. Google's problem with most ODP clones is that they are simply that -- clones with no changes at all.