North Texas Land ClearingCross Timbers & Rolling Plains

North Texas spans several distinct regions: the Cross Timbers (cedar/juniper and oak savannas), Rolling Plains (increasing mesquite), and prairie lands. Eastern red cedar is the primary concern in much of the region - it's aggressively spreading into pastures and doesn't resprout after cutting, making it ideal for forestry mulching. Moving west into the Rolling Plains, mesquite becomes more prevalent and requires grubbing for permanent control.

North Texas clearing costs typically range from $1,800-$5,500 per acre. Light brush/scattered cedar: $1,800-$2,800/acre. Moderate cedar: $2,500-$4,000/acre. Dense cedar thickets: $3,500-$5,500/acre. Mesquite grubbing: $1,500-$3,000/acre. Selective clearing (preserving oaks): $2,800-$4,500/acre. Exact pricing depends on vegetation density, terrain, and project scope.

No - this is the good news about cedar (juniper). Eastern red cedar and Ashe juniper do not resprout from roots or stumps. Once cut or mulched, the tree is dead. This makes cedar clearing a one-time project. The challenge is preventing new seedlings from establishing, which comes from birds spreading seeds. Maintaining healthy grass competition helps reduce seedling survival.

Absolutely. Selective clearing is common in the Cross Timbers region where property owners want to restore the native oak savanna landscape. We mark the oaks (post oak, live oak, or blackjack oak) you want to keep and carefully clear the cedar understory around them. The result is a more open landscape with beautiful native oaks - the way the Cross Timbers originally looked.

Yes. Cedar is highly flammable due to its oil content and creates significant fire fuel load. Clearing cedar around structures creates defensible space. Many North Texas property owners clear at least 100-200 feet around buildings and create clear firebreaks between pastures. Even thinning dense cedar stands reduces fire risk substantially.

Year-round clearing is possible, but fall through early spring is often optimal. Cooler temperatures make equipment operation more efficient. Vegetation is less active, making for cleaner clearing. Ground conditions are typically good. If using herbicide follow-up for mesquite, apply during the growing season (spring-fall) when plants are actively moving nutrients to roots.