Top 5 Things to Know Before Hiring Forestry Mulching Services in Pennsylvania

Forestry mulching has quickly become one of the most efficient and environmentally friendly ways to clear land in Pennsylvania. Whether you're a property owner trying to tame overgrowth, a farmer reclaiming pasture, or a developer prepping for construction, forestry mulching can save you time and money compared to traditional land clearing. But before you hire just anyone with a skid steer and a mulching head, there are a few key things you should know.

At Kerr Forestry, we specialize in professional, low-impact land clearing using high-performance equipment. Here’s what we think every landowner should consider before hiring a forestry mulching contractor.

1. Not All Equipment Is Created Equal
Forestry mulching relies heavily on the type of machine and head being used. Many contractors use underpowered machines or rental attachments that can’t handle dense material efficiently. This results in longer job times and a less effective finish.

At Kerr Forestry, we use a purpose-built skid steer paired with a Fecon BH74SS mulching head — one of the most respected tools in the industry. It allows us to process material quickly and grind it down to a finer mulch, which breaks down faster and provides a cleaner look.

2. Experience Matters More Than Horsepower
Just because someone has the right machine doesn’t mean they know how to use it properly. An inexperienced operator can leave stumps too tall, miss entire areas, or cause unnecessary ground disturbance.

We’re owner-operated and have completed projects across Lancaster County and beyond — from tight residential lots to multi-acre woodlots. Every job is approached with precision, safety, and attention to detail. We’re not just trying to knock down brush — we’re helping you improve your land.

3. Mulching Isn’t the Same as Total Clearing
Forestry mulching is ideal for brush, small trees, undergrowth, and invasives like bamboo or multiflora rose. But it’s not the same as excavation or dozing. If you need roots removed, stumps pulled, or soil reshaped, mulching may only be part of the solution.

That’s why we often pair mulching with additional services like grading, stump grinding, and seeding. We can help you figure out the right approach for your goals — whether that’s creating a buildable pad or restoring a pasture.

4. Ask About Site Cleanup and Finish Work
Some companies will leave behind uneven ground, stringy material, or partially mulched debris. Before you hire anyone, ask:

• Do they mulch everything to ground level?

• Will they clean around stumps, trails, or fence lines?

• What does the finished product look like?

At Kerr Forestry, we don’t leave half-finished jobs. We aim for a smooth, consistent finish with mulch spread evenly and no piles of brush left behind. If needed, we can even return for follow-up work or regrading to prep for planting.

5. Local Knowledge and Licensing Make a Difference
Pennsylvania has unique terrain, soil types, invasive species, and weather challenges. A company that knows the local environment — and what grows back fast — can help you plan for long-term success.

Kerr Forestry is fully licensed, insured, and registered with the Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) program. We understand township rules, zoning challenges, and how to work around utilities and easements. That’s a level of accountability you won’t always find with out-of-town contractors or Facebook handymen.

Bonus Tip: Get a Clear Quote Up Front
Forestry mulching jobs can be priced per hour, per acre, or by the project. Make sure the quote includes:

• Total estimated cost

• What’s included (travel, machine time, finish work)

• Any additional fees (fuel surcharge, stump grinding, etc.)

We believe in transparent pricing. When we quote a job, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting — no surprises or hidden charges.

Wrap-Up: Mulching Done Right Pays Off Long Term
Forestry mulching can drastically improve the usability, safety, and appearance of your property. But getting it done right the first time means hiring someone with the right tools, experience, and local knowledge.

If you’re thinking about clearing land in Lancaster County or the surrounding area, give Kerr Forestry a call. We’re not just equipment operators — we’re land restoration specialists who care about the outcome of every job.

You can contact us to schedule a free site visit and estimate.
Let’s talk about how we can help clear your land — the smart way.