Excavator Work, Oil Changes, and Tree Clearing After Rain

Return to Work and Muddy Conditions

• 🌧️ The team returns to work after a nine-day vacation, only to find the site as muddy as when they left due to persistent rain.
• 🪵 Despite the wet conditions, some previously burned areas show good signs of clearing.

Excavator Maintenance and Operation

• ⚙️ The 350 excavator requires its first oil change at around 500 hours, with a discussion about the unusual oil pan drain system requiring a vacuum or removal of the belly pan.
• 🌳 The 220 excavator is used to begin clearing trees along the side of the house and opening up more area.
• 🧰 Robert successfully completes the oil and filter change on the 350, though priming the engine proves to be a process due to air in the system.

Land Clearing and Burning Strategy

• 🔥 The initial burning of brush has saved significant hauling effort, opening up a lot of room.
• 🌲 Larger pine trees are being felled, with plans to coordinate a log truck for removal, as they are too large for simple hauling.
• 🪵 The focus shifts to cutting down trees and preparing logs, with a goal of clearing an additional 2.5 to 3 acres based on permit limits.

Erosion Control and Future Plans

• 🚧 Silt fence installation is a priority, especially after clearing trees near the house, to manage erosion.
• 🏠 The plan includes backfilling areas around the house with dirt and grading to meet waterproofing requirements.
• 📅 A log truck is scheduled for the following afternoon to haul away cut logs, addressing the need for multiple loads to justify the trip.
• ✅ The day concludes with trees cleared on one side of the house, the 350 serviced, logs cut, and silt fence installed, marking the current clearing limits.