Land clearing is an essential process during site preparation, as it removes most of the vegetation that's crowding the plot. However, many clearing techniques don't consider environmental impact. As the name implies, eco-friendly land clearing aims to minimize the damage and disturbance caused by an otherwise destructive activity. Learn more about how you can get this job done with the least amount of harm, even when you're using heavy machinery and equipment.

Underbrush Clearing

Considered a less-invasive land clearing method, underbrush clearing targets shrubs, low-lying vegetation, and young trees. It doesn't strip the land down to the soil, only taking out what's necessary. A mower clears out invasive weeds and plants while a hydro-ax chops trees into smaller chunks. Since both pieces of equipment can be selective in removal, they have minor impacts on the surrounding environment. Moreover, they turn the decimated vegetation into mulch, which is useful for keeping the soil moist and healthy.

Forest Mulching

This type of land clearing targets specific areas for removal, using a mulcher to get rid of unwanted growth. The machine chops and cuts vegetation, grinding the waste into mulch on-site and spreading it over the cleared land. Because forest mulching uses only one machine to do all the work, it minimizes the compression of soil from traffic and the weight of heavy equipment.

What Are the Benefits?

Prevents Erosion

Bare and exposed soil is vulnerable to damage due to water run-off and strong winds. However, both techniques add mulch to keep the soil in place and protected against the elements.

Enriches the Soil

As the mulch decomposes, it adds nutrients to the soil. This helps fertilize the land, keeping it healthy for plant growth.

Reduces Carbon Emissions

Both land clearing methods reuse organic waste as mulch instead of burning it or hauling it off-site. Such waste disposal methods contribute to carbon emissions and impact the environment.

 

For environment-focused land clearing, turn to the professionals at Alaska Hydro Ax in Anchorage, AK. This trusted excavation contractor has offered quality land clearing services, including tree removal and stump grinding, throughout South Central Alaska since 1981. Call (907) 243-6200 to request a free estimate or learn more about their land clearing services online.