Large Rocks/Boulders

[Bill_Ryan]

A question for all you with rocky pastures....

I've been cleaning out our pastures of various size rocks (we grow rocks here in NH) using a backhoe on a TC35D. After popping out the rocks, I can lift and move/dump some in a convenient area. The larger ones are a bit more difficult. I've been pushing them off to the side near stone walls or existing rock piles, but this tends to leave trails thru the pasture (not that the pasture is clean to begin with).

I'll be digging some out in the yard (i.e. mowed area) soon and was wondering if anyone has any suggestions/experience in moving very large rocks (too big to lift with FEL) such that I don't tear up the lawn.

Do people use homemade sleds? Anyone have any picts of sleds they use or any other devices?

I just want to ensure there isn't an easier/quicker/cleaner way of doing it. Looking for tips, etc and to learn from others experiences.

Thanks in advance,

Bill

 

[hayden]

Hi Bill,

I'm a New Hampster too. The best thing I've found for big rocks is to get the bucket under them as best you can and unweight them as much as possible, then shove them along to their new destination. I've moved some very large rocks this way, but it does leave skid marks.

 

[SteveV]

I've spent a few years clearing what was a pasture back when everybody had a farm. Burying on the spot also leaves you with some fill to straighten out another hole or partially exposed roller or ledge. Split the rock with holes and wedges, or finally, skid them on an old car hood (prefferably something from the fifties when steel was steel)or hire somebody with a machine that will pick it up. When they get over a couple of thousand pounds you make a mess no matter what you do./w3tcompact/icons/smile.gif SteveV

 

[RPM]

Bill,

Would it be feasible to pop them now and then skid them out when the ground freezes? Just a thought - maybe less 'plowing' of the yard.

Patrick

 

[Boondox]

I'm a Vermonster with similar issues. I deal with them one of two ways. (1) get as much in the bucket as possible, secure it with chains, and drag the bucket/stone backwards using the bucket as a sled, or (2) pushing it onto a little sled (4x4s mounted on sheet metal curved up in front like ski tips) and pulling it wherever. The bucket and chain method tends to leave less damage, probably because my sled is so small.

Pete

www.GatewayToVermont.com