The cover rating per side is determined by this formula: 



Y 

 cover rating = X + -&- 



where: X = numbers visible to the observer 

 n 



Y = numbers partially visible 



The obscured numbers do not contribute to the cover rating. The M.C.R. 

 is equal to the sum of cover ratings per side divided by 4. 



I 



-:■ • >.<-, >^| 





:>jr^ A ^k:- 



Figure 2. Cover board used to estimate density of vegetative cover 

 surrounding goose nests. 



Water levels at each nest site were monitored with the use of 6-foot 

 steel fence posts driven into a firm substrate at the water's edge near the 

 nest. Each post was numbered and identified by attaching a metal tag to the 

 top. Water level (gage height) was determined by measuring the distance 

 from the top of the post to the water surface. 



11 



