On the subject of other colors similar to the JD 4310:
Look at the NH TC29D or TC33D . If you want a more capable FEL than NH's 7308 model, look at the Woods model 1012. Or wait until the 2004 model year (I think out this fall) where the TC 29/33 will get a slight redesign to accomodate a new FEL, the NH 14LA. (Note, from what I hear, the 14LA will not fit on the older models of TC29/33).
Also check out NH's budget tractor, the TC 30. One of the few "budget" tractors that is available with HST.
In the Kubota line, look at the L3010. Similar size and capability to the JD 4310.
IMO, stay away from the JD 790. It's their budget tractor in the 30 HP range, but is very limited in the 3 pt hitch and FEL capacity, at least as compared to the JD 4310 you mentioned, and the Kubota L3010.
I bought a NH TC33D for use on my 80+ acres (and my neighbors 30 acres) in Vermont. Mostly wooded, with 15 acres or so of meadow/pasture. Similar uses to what you described in your post. I was considering the Larger TC40D, but went with the smaller footprint for easier access through my forest trails. I did not get NH's supersteer option, and have not felt the need for it on my property (others who do have it seem to be pretty strong fans... I just had other things to spend the extra $1000 on).
You should be able to find a TC33D for around $17,500 with FEL (get the heavy duty bucket on any FEL you end up with). A backhoe will probably run you in the $6K range new (i.e. the NH 757c) you can save some by going with a smaller BH. I'm not up on Post hole digger or log splitter prices, so can't help you there. Another thing you may want to look at is a Brush hog/rotary cutter (less than $1000 for a 5 foot model), and either a rear blade or box blade (my 6 ft Woods GB72 box blade ran just under $600). I have the box blade, and like it for gravel road maintenance, putting in drainage swales, and general regrading of the yard. A rear blade would be helpful for dealing with snow, and some earthmoving applications, but I've gotten by fine without it so far.
If you have any questions on the TC33D, I'd be happy to try to help.
John Mc