Forestry mulching and land clearing

Rural landowners, ranchers and farmers, home builders, hunters, utility and solar site contractors and homeowners with overgrown lots.

Charged per hour of machine time or per acre depending on density of growth, often with a minimum job fee and a charge for moving the machine to the site.

• Operating heavy equipment
• Basic machine maintenance
• Estimating jobs and pricing per acre or hour
• Hauling and loading equipment safely

• Equipment is a major cost; check financing terms and the repair costs of used machines
• General liability, equipment insurance and workers' compensation if you hire; ask about coverage for fire and property damage
• Check local rules on land clearing, burning, wetlands, protected trees and erosion control with your county or state forestry agency
• A truck and trailer rated for the machine weight, plus any required driver license class, check your state rules
• Work is weather dependent and wear on equipment can be high

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $60,000 to $250,000, depending mainly on the machine, whether it is new or used, and your financing terms. Also check repair costs on used machines.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on your pricing, the jobs you win and how many hours you work. Work is weather dependent and equipment wear can be high.

Check local rules on land clearing, burning, wetlands, protected trees and erosion control with your county or state forestry agency. Also check insurance for fire and property damage, and the truck, trailer and driver license class your state requires.