Pasture Reclamation in Texas

Overgrown pastures are a common challenge for Texas ranchers. Mesquite, cedar, and brush can take over productive grazing land in just a few years. The good news? With the right approach, you can reclaim your pasture and significantly improve its carrying capacity.

The Problem: Brush Encroachment in Texas

Texas loses an estimated 2.2 million acres annually to brush encroachment. Mesquite alone covers over 60 million acres of Texas rangeland. This vegetation:

• Competes with native grasses for water and nutrients
• Provides shade that stunts grass growth
• Reduces grazing capacity by 50-90%
• Creates hiding spots for predators
• Makes livestock management more difficult

Common Brush Species in Texas

Mesquite

The most problematic species in Texas. A single mesquite tree can consume 20+ gallons of water per day and spread rapidly through seed dispersal by cattle.

Ashe Juniper (Cedar)

Dominant in Central and Hill Country Texas. Cedar is extremely water-intensive and creates dense thickets that completely shade out grass.

Huisache

Common in South Texas. Fast-growing and thorny, making pastures nearly impassable.

Prickly Pear

While sometimes beneficial for wildlife, prickly pear can overtake pastures and reduce grazing capacity.

The Solution: Forestry Mulching

Forestry mulching is the most effective method for pasture reclamation because it:

• Clears brush in a single pass
• Grinds vegetation into mulch that protects soil
• Preserves soil structure (no heavy dozer damage)
• Returns organic matter to the land
• Allows immediate grass recovery
• Reduces regrowth compared to cutting alone

The Reclamation Process

Step 1: Assessment

We evaluate your property to determine:

• Brush species and density
• Terrain and accessibility
• Desirable trees to preserve
• Fence lines and infrastructure
• Your management goals

Step 2: Clearing

Our forestry mulching equipment clears brush efficiently:

• 5-10 acres per day on average
• Selective clearing around desirable trees
• Fence line clearing included
• Mulch layer left for erosion control

Step 3: Follow-Up Care

For best results, we recommend:

• Rest pasture for 60-90 days after clearing
• Consider overseeding with native grasses
• Plan for maintenance clearing every 3-5 years
• Monitor for and spot-treat regrowth

Best Time to Clear Pasture

October through March is the ideal window because:

• Plants are dormant (less regrowth)
• Ground is typically drier (better equipment access)
• Livestock can be easily moved
• Grass has full growing season to recover
• Winter moisture helps soil recovery

Cost and ROI

Pasture reclamation typically costs $800-$2,500 per acre depending on brush density. The investment usually pays off through:

• Increased stocking rates
• Reduced supplemental feeding
• Higher property values
• Easier livestock management
• Potential USDA cost-share programs

Areas We Serve

Bear Claw provides pasture reclamation services throughout Texas, including:

• North Texas: Weatherford, Mineral Wells, Graham
• Central Texas: Stephenville, Glen Rose, Brownwood
• West Texas: Abilene, San Angelo, Midland area
• DFW Metroplex: Rural properties in surrounding counties

Frequently Asked Questions