Eastern red cedar is one of the most invasive species plaguing Oklahoma ranchers. These aggressive trees spread rapidly across pastureland, reducing grazing capacity and depleting water resources. Forestry mulching offers the most effective solution for reclaiming your land.
The Cedar Problem in Oklahoma
According to Oklahoma State University research, eastern red cedar is expanding at a rate of approximately 762 acres per day across the state. Left unchecked, cedar trees can reduce cattle grazing capacity by up to 75% and consume significantly more water than native grasses.
Impact on Ranching Operations
- Reduced forage production for cattle
- Increased wildfire risk due to cedar’s high oil content
- Decreased property values
- Loss of native grass habitat for wildlife
- Depleted groundwater resources
Why Forestry Mulching Is the Answer
Traditional cedar removal methods like dozing and burning are expensive and leave the land scarred. Forestry mulching grinds cedar trees into mulch right where they stand, returning organic material to the soil.
The Process
Our tracked forestry mulchers can handle cedars up to 12 inches in diameter with ease. The machine grinds trees from the top down, turning the entire tree — branches, trunk, and all — into a fine mulch layer that covers the ground.
Results You Can See
Within weeks of mulching, native warm-season grasses like Big Bluestem, Indiangrass, and Switchgrass begin to emerge through the mulch layer. These grasses are far more valuable for cattle grazing than the land covered in cedar.
Cost Comparison
Traditional dozer clearing typically costs $800-$1,500 per acre when you factor in pushing, piling, hauling, and reseeding. Forestry mulching averages $500-$1,000 per acre with no additional cleanup needed. For a 100-acre ranch, that’s a savings of $30,000-$50,000.
If cedar trees are taking over your Oklahoma ranch, don’t wait. Every year you delay means more lost grazing land. Call Timber Tactics today for a free property assessment.