Installing a Board. When installing a cover object the leaf litter should be removed, the mineral soil leveled, and the board placed so its entire surface is in contact with the earth. After an animal is found under a cover object, it should be captured and released immediately after measuring next to the object so that it can crawl back under without being crushed. Continuity of Cover Materials. . Once a cover object type and dimensions are decided upon for a site, it must be maintained, ad infinitum, for the sake of repeatability.
Wood appears to often be the most preferred substrate in preference tests.
Type, dimensions, and species of board must remain the same over time. Theoretically, the best cover object is one that retains as much moisture as possible for the longest period of time. Green lumber can be obtained directly from a local sawmill, which is normally listed under the heading sawmills in telephone directories. Many small mills are not listed, but can be located by asking at a local farm supply store. Most farmers use small mills to supply them with fence boards and barn wood.