Need info/experience on Mulching head skidsteers....

[BobG_in_VA]

Folks, does anyone have good info on the tracked mulchers??/ I'm looking at clearing about 5 acres of land that is now wooded (it was timbered about 27 years ago). The trees are pretty much 20-25 feet tall and from 3" to 8" in diameter. Will one of these units actually capable to do the job without taking a whole bunch of time?? The contractor says they get $1500/day (8 hr days) and can clear about an acre a day (I've seen videos of clearing undergrowth and small 4" or so saplings--one at a time)...I don't want to start and then find out it can't cut it (literally and figuratively). Good Info Needed!! BobG in VA

 

[Robbie Hegwood]

Bob, sent you a PM

 

[TMTS]

a lot depends on the type of machine they are proposing on using...and what is the tree type? Hardwood vs. softwood makes a big difference. Also density of stems...if the majority of wood is 6" or greater, I would think that shearing/bunching and skidding to a chipper might be a better bet...with 20-25 ft of 6-8" trees (especially hardwood) creates a lot of mulch...also depends on what you plan on using the area for after...if you are thinking of seeding the area for grass or something else, then getting all the bio-mass (mulch) off site might make more sense...

so to give my two cents worth- it all depends...