Charging for Bush Hogging/Clearing Around Retention Ponds

[big bubba]

might post several or more site pics of the areas you are describing

 

[crashz]

I like to walk a property before quoting. Up here in NH, there are no big open fields, just small, rocky, wooded, steep patches. I average about 1/2 - 1 acre per hour. My first cut is almost always 1/2 and within a few cuttings up to 1 acre per hour. Cutting varys based on customer. anywhere from once per year to 3 times per year.

I have a customer with a pond that I cut once per year. The property is 4 acres divided into 3 fields and is loaded with obstructions. Takes me about 6 hours now. But I back up to the water's edge with the mower and cut as far as I can into the water. Lots of back and forth and maneuvering.

A Ventrac or Steiner is going to cut about the same rate as my 5ft brush cutter and 25HP tractor, on the flats. If it were me, I'd use a cut rate of 3/4 acre per hour. So 15 acres / 0.75acres per hour = 20 hours.

Can you limit the number of cuttings in the contract? Add an assumption with a per visit rate?

 

[Hay Dude]

Only way I would do a contract is allowing me to mow it first. It is only fair of the customer to agree. No way would i do it without knowing what is required. are you doing it as a favor or to make money?

We would all like that, but some customers want moving done with an annual contract. Whenever someone offers me a “one time” opportunity, it is a relief of sorts because it gives me a second chance to adjust price.

 

[EddieWalker]

Problem with ponds and wet areas is when you get stuck. Whatever you decide to charge, add to the bid the amount of hours you will spend getting unstuck. It will happen, it always does when mowing close to water.

What is your plan for getting unstuck? Winch? Another tractor? Calling the tow truck?