Forrest Mulching

[corydd7]

I have a two acres that seem to have no game activity except for grouse and rabbit do to beech saplings taking over. Its almost to thick to even walk threw.

I happen to have a guy who does forrest mulching less then a mile away from my cabin. Quoted me $250 an hour. Out of my 40 acres about 6 acres are overrun with beech saplings so it's not like there wouldn't still be very thick areas.

I need more shooting lanes, i would also food make this area into a food source and plant softwoods along the edge. I also would leave a couple semi mature trees for structure. 

First question is this a decent rate per hour?

Second question is has anyone ever had this done on their property and how was their experience? 

I understand the soil will be low ph and need lots of work so i would be planting grains and clover to start.

[Moho81]

$250 an hour including fuel and yes that seems about right. 

[cervidchasers]

Yes a great rate with fuel and operator. 
Do it now and throw red clover seed on it. Spring time load it up with rye and triticale and by August of 2026 you will be ready to plant other stuff like corn or beans

Edited December 18, 2024 by cervidchasers

[Trial153]

that’s a good rate.  In fact it’s what i submit for TM for mulching and spraying invasives for removal funding 

[Bucksnbows]

That’s a great rate, but I’m not sure it’s your long term solution. The beech will most likely re-sprout with just cutting them.  You may need a year of herbicides to kill them off. Food for thought. But $250 per hour is a good rate. I get a lot more when I do it for clients, but I’m also renting the equipment as we don’t own. 

[corydd7]

29 minutes ago, Bucksnbows said:

That’s a great rate, but I’m not sure it’s your long term solution. The beech will most likely re-sprout with just cutting them.  You may need a year of herbicides to kill them off. Food for thought. But $250 per hour is a good rate. I get a lot more when I do it for clients, but I’m also renting the equipment as we don’t own. 

Yeah so my thought was after the mulching to wait a couple weeks then spray glysophate. This has worked for me to create trails about 10 feet wide. 

Im aware there are specific other sprays to "hack and spray".  The growth is just so overwhelming i think the mulching would get me a starting point. 

Thanks for all the advice guys.

Im already more comfortable with the $250 an hour price then i was an hour ago lol. And yes gas is included he mentioned how quickly he burns gas.

[Jsin]

bucksnbow,  nailed it. Spraying the beech will be your biggest issue. Find a dozen mature beech in the same vicinity of your areas you want to clear and utilize the hack n squirt method. You will get a better hold of your beech issue as opposed to just targeting the mulched areas.