South Texas Ranch ClearingBrush Country Land Management

South Texas ranch clearing typically costs $2,000-$5,500 per acre, with mesquite removal being the primary cost driver. Light brush runs $1,500-$2,500/acre. Moderate mixed brush costs $2,000-$3,500/acre. Heavy mesquite requiring root grubbing for permanent control runs $3,500-$5,500/acre. Prickly pear adds $300-$800/acre. Budget for follow-up treatments ($200-$500/acre) to prevent regrowth.

South Texas brush species (mesquite, huisache) regrow aggressively from roots, requiring root grubbing or ongoing chemical treatment for permanent control. Hill Country cedar doesn't regrow once cut. This makes South Texas clearing a more involved process with higher long-term costs - but the results are worth it for restoring productive pastureland.

Yes, mesquite WILL regrow if only cut or mulched. For permanent control, you need: 1) Root grubbing (mechanical removal of root crown), 2) Stump treatment with herbicide after cutting, or 3) Ongoing follow-up treatment for 2-3 years. We recommend root grubbing for heavily infested areas and mulching + chemical for moderate infestations.

Prickly pear requires special treatment because it spreads from pads and seeds. We typically use mechanical removal followed by chemical treatment of regrowth. Large prickly pear areas may require multiple treatments. The good news is prickly pear is easier to control once the initial population is reduced and you stay on top of regrowth.

South Texas clearing rates vary: Light brush clears at 4-6 acres/day. Moderate mixed brush at 3-5 acres/day. Heavy mesquite with root grubbing at 2-4 acres/day. A 100-acre ranch with moderate brush takes 20-35 working days. Heavy mesquite requiring root grubbing may take 35-50 days. We can deploy multiple machines for faster completion on large projects.

Root grubbing is more expensive upfront ($3,500-$5,500/acre) but provides the most permanent solution. Chemical stump treatment ($2,500-$4,000/acre including mulching) is effective but requires follow-up treatments. For heavy infestations on productive land, root grubbing typically offers better ROI. For moderate infestations, mulching + chemical is cost-effective. We help evaluate your specific situation.