OK, I�m back in operation. Apparently, a stuck key on the keyboard was the culprit. Now, back to the story.
After taking delivery of the track hoe we spent the first couple of days clearing the gully. Bob, my track hoe operator uprooted the trees and brush, and I used my tractor to push the debris the length of the pond to the backside of the dam. This created a massive brush pile within the confines of the gully where it could be safely burned in the future.
Hiring Bob not only saved time, but also provided for the 100 gallon auxiliary fuel tank in his truck, which we used to haul diesel.
He would have probably worked for free, but I can�t ask that of anyone.
Besides, I�ve found that when I hire a helper for a project it�s motivates me to get busy, and not lollygag around.
(1st picture) Bob carves out a ramp while descending into the gully.
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(Picture above) Pushing down a dead oak tree.
(Picture above) Snap!���He broke it��..I left all the big oaks standing when I initially cleared the gully with a chainsaw, to make it easier to remove the root ball, using the trunk as leverage. Unfortunately, this tree had died and the root ball had to be dug out.
