Quote Originally Posted by Morph Momma View Post

Also we went to a local reptile store and were told that we should absolutely under no circumstances use under tank heaters because snakes soak up heat from their backs and they are no use to the snakes. Please lend your thoughts on this statement.
I am not sure who you talked to, or which store you were in but this is not true. Just to make sure you understand you will want to mount the UTH on the outside, under the tank. This will prevent any electrical shock when things get moist inside the tank.

The cypress is a good choice, it can be misted and kept damp without it molding. Don't keep it soggy or they will get belly rot. You will see it get light tan when it drys out.