Central Texas Ranch ClearingHill Country Land Clearing Specialists

Hill Country ranch clearing typically costs $2,000-$4,500 per acre using forestry mulching, depending on cedar density and terrain. Light cedar runs $1,500-$2,500/acre, moderate density $2,000-$3,500/acre, and heavy cedar brakes with steep terrain $3,000-$5,500/acre. Selective clearing to preserve oaks adds $500-$1,000/acre. A 100-acre Hill Country ranch typically runs $200,000-$400,000 total.

Ashe juniper (mountain cedar) dominates Central Texas ranches, typically comprising 60-80% of brush. Other common vegetation includes live oak, Spanish oak (which are usually preserved), some mesquite (more common toward the east), and prickly pear. The good news is cedar doesn't regrow from roots, making it easier to control than mesquite.

Many Hill Country ranch owners report springs returning or increasing flow after cedar clearing. Cedar intercepts 30-40% of rainfall and each mature tree drinks 35+ gallons daily from groundwater. In the Edwards Aquifer region, cedar clearing has documented benefits for water resources. While results vary by property, improved water is a common outcome.

We typically recommend leaving some cedar for wildlife cover - about 10-20% in strategic locations (draws, steep slopes, wildlife corridors). Complete removal is fine on smaller acreages, but larger ranches benefit from diversity. We'll help identify the best balance for your property based on your goals.

Expect 3-6 acres per day with forestry mulching in typical Hill Country terrain. A 50-acre ranch takes 10-15 working days. A 100-acre ranch takes 20-30 days. Rocky terrain and steep slopes slow progress. We can use multiple machines on large projects to reduce timeline.

We preserve valuable oaks (live oak, Spanish oak, post oak) as a standard practice. Our forestry mulching operators are experienced in selective clearing around oaks. Tell us which trees you want preserved, and we'll work carefully around them. Oaks add significant value to Hill Country property.