Testing Log Racks and Clearing Trees with Excavators

Excavator Log Racking and Hauling

• ⚠️ A "whoopsie" occurred when a tree snagged a log, breaking off an excavator's headlight.
• 🚚 The team begins hauling pulpwood, aiming for at least two loads, with plans to cut more trees.
• 📏 Log racks are adjusted to be tighter, as the current 13ft spacing could allow a 12ft log to roll through.
• 💡 The weld job on the log racks is tested, with confidence they will hold unless accidentally hit sideways.
• ⚖️ The first load of logs is estimated at 19-20 tons, with potential to increase volume by cutting longer logs up to 18ft, staying within the legal limit of 48,000 lbs.

Tree Clearing and Excavator Work

• 🌲 The larger excavator is used for taking down trees in a corner, proving easier than using a smaller machine.
• 🪵 Some trees break unexpectedly during felling, requiring adjustments to the plan.
• ⚠️ Navigating poison ivy and property lines adds complexity to felling certain trees.
• 🌳 A dead top in a tree is noted, and roots are dug out to control the fall.
• 🚧 Clearing trees along a field line aims to gain 30-40 ft of usable space for a new pasture.
• 🌿 English ivy and other dense vegetation make some trees difficult to clear.
• 🌲 Sweet gum trees are noted for their strong roots, requiring significant effort to dislodge.
• 🌳 A large maple tree is pushed over with a main tree, causing both to fall together.
• 🪵 The excavator is used to break apart large chunks of branches and clear stumps.

Equipment and Operations

• ⛽ A stop is made for gas, utilizing the Upside app to earn cash back on fuel purchases.
• 💰 The Upside app is highlighted for offering savings on gas, groceries, and dining.
• 🚜 The larger excavator is deemed the perfect machine for bigger jobs, providing more force and control than smaller models.
• 🪵 Chainsaw gas is refilled multiple times as cutting progresses.
• 🌧️ Rain is anticipated, prompting a move to clear a barn pad project with the smaller excavator.
• ✅ The week concludes with significant progress made on clearing logs, brush, and taking down trees.