How to Start a Brush Clearing Business
Forestry mulching, land clearing, and vegetation management
Forestry mulching is a specialized, high-margin service requiring significant equipment investment. Rates range from $100-$400/hr or $500-$3,000/acre depending on vegetation density. Startup costs are higher than general skid steer work ($60,000-$120,000+) due to the mulcher attachment, but profit margins are among the best in the industry.
$150-$250
Typical hourly
$1,500-$3,000
Per acre (dense)
$15K-$40K
Mulcher attachment
Year-round
Demand (varies)
Why Forestry Mulching?
Advantages
- + Single-pass operation (no burning or hauling)
- + Premium pricing vs standard grading
- + Less competition (specialized equipment)
- + Growing demand (fire prevention, land development)
- + Environmentally preferred method
Challenges
- - High equipment investment
- - Significant maintenance costs
- - Requires large-frame CTL with high-flow hydraulics
- - Rural work = more travel time
- - Seasonal in some regions
Current Rates by Region
| Region | Hourly | Per Acre |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $150-$400/hr | $1,500-$3,000 |
| Saskatchewan | $140-$185/hr | ~$350 (light poplar) |
| British Columbia | $150-$300/hr | $500-$2,500 |
| Ontario | $150-$250/hr | $500-$2,500 |
Equipment Requirements
Base Machine (Large-Frame CTL)
Forestry mulching requires high-flow hydraulics (30+ GPM) and heavy-duty undercarriage. Large-frame CTLs are the standard platform.
Forestry Mulcher Attachment
New: $15,000-$40,000 depending on cutting capacity.
Used: $8,000-$25,000.
Popular brands: FAE, Fecon, Denis Cimaf, Baumalight.
Brush Hog (for light clearing)
72" rotary cutter for grass and light brush only.
Rental: ~$295/day.
Purchase: $3,000-$8,000 used.
Total Startup Cost
$80,000 - $150,000+
Large-frame CTL + forestry mulcher + trailer + tow vehicle
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