Alternatives to Bulldozing

[hpp4me]

Or perhaps I should have titled this "Alternatives to Ripping."

Ripping always seemed like overkill to me when all I really want is a smooth walking surface (sprained ankles can ruin one's day) and places to plant a few trees.

Given the high cost of ripping, couldn't I just hire a guy (or gal) with a small machine to put holes where I want trees, trenches where I want hedges, and then bring in crushed rock to spread over the rest to create a smooth surface (like frosting a cake)? Would such an approach work, and would it save money?

[greywolf74]

Absolutely hpp4me. Have you checked out our thread, "On Track" for selective clearing? We are trying to educate people and show them that you do not always need to hire expensive dozers for such jobs, contrary to what your neighbors or others may think and tell you. While dozers are great for clearing very large spreads and making roads, they can sure destroy alot of natural beauty in the process. We have a Hydraulic thumb which allows us to carefully remove debris (as opposed to pushing it into a pile for you to contend with) as well as relocate hapuu's if needed. Our Hammer is used to hammer down high spots and fill the low spots with the material. Similar to "ripping", different method, same results.

Anyway if you are interested in more detailed information, you can e-mail me. My website should be up and going here very soon. When it is, I will be sure and post it under my thread so people can get clarity and pictures of what selective clearing is.

[hpp4me]

I know that thread. What I'm not sure about is how selective cleaning addresses the uneven surface problem.

[greywolf74]

We use our hydraulic hammer to hammer down high spots, then use the rock we hammer out to fill low spots. Then all you need is a skim coat of base or cinder ( whichever you prefer) to cover. []

[hpp4me]

Thanks for the details!