Great Board! questions...

[JoeinTX]

You do need an Applicator's License to buy these chemicals. Generally, this involves a one-day class conducted by county extension agent (or???).

Brush control is necessary for proper land management and wildlife promotion. Sometimes, as was stated above, you can only control as much as you can afford to, but some is better than none.

 

[Soundguy]

have not ruled out the possibility of a "cab" even though I used to laugh at those guys who had them when I was alot younger, now the thought of fighting grass allergies, hornets and the knife job I get at the skin doc every 6 months don't seem as fun as they used to.

Even if yuo don't get a cab.. do consider getting a canopy top.. even if it is a simple canvas buggy top that will fit with your rops.

UV Skin damage is no fun.

I have a canopy on my mowing tractors, and try to slather on some 50spf on my exposed arms and legs, nose, and ears. I also try to wear a hat.. every little bit helps.

Good luck

Soundguy

 

[3RRL]

I'll second what Soundguy said about the canopy. Get something for sure. I worked the tractor this weekend in 100° heat and the canopy (plus hat) kept me in the shade. Getting on and off the tractor in the direct Sun is a killer compared to the shade provided by the canopy.

 

[daTeacha]

Not to mention A/C, stereo, and all the other luxuries guys put in 'em. How about a mini-fridge to keep your lunch cool?

 

[texasjohn]

Knowing something about South Texas, and very little about your situation, I'd spend your money this way:

Get a cab and the largest 4wd HST 50+ HP tractor that fits under it for the money you have. Dust, heat, cold, wind, bugs, sound, branches in the face.. good to avoid!

make sure you have enough money left over for attachments.. critical ones are

front end loader
toothbar
box blade
sprayer, 300 gallons, 2 wheels (carries water too when needed, can be used to fight fires)
at least two rear hydraulic ports, 3 are better
hydraulic top link (uses 1 rear port)
shredder
post hole digger
carry all that fits on rear 3pt hitch for tool box
box blade
Pats Easy change
hydraulic top link
Weight on rear... lots of weight... tires filled, rear weights (concrete, rock, metal, whatever you have) on carryall,

Get pesticide licence... I have one. Alternatively, know somebody that has one... With the private applicator licence that I have, someone can work 'under my supervision" . This means that a neighbor (person must be in my proximity and I must be able to check on your well being in a short time) can use herbicide that I purchased for his use... however, he cannot be in my employ but he can reimburse me for the expense. Cost of license is about $70 and an evening... courses are given locally but maybe only 2 times a year... pain to wait for...

Double check... I don't think that Remedy is on the restricted list... could be wrong.. You will end up spraying weeds/brush, however, with a restricted herbicide, so license or access to the materials is still a need.

WOW! It's so fun to spend somebody ELSE'S money And to tell them what to do