The smooth-versus-stump comparison was a planned, foundational experiment for Lapeyrouse Lands.
The smooth area received extensive mechanical preparation:
Stump removal
Root raking
Piling
Burning
Grading
Smoothing
Forestry mulching
The forestry mulcher was operated approximately five inches below grade.
The stump-retained area received a more limited treatment. Large slash was piled and burned, but the stumps, roots, and much of the remaining surface structure were retained.
The purpose was to create two practical restoration paths that could be evaluated over time.
Treatment Areas
Smooth pasture: approximately 20 acres
Stump-retained pasture: approximately 15.5 acres
Comparison Costs
Smooth treatment: approximately $2,600 per acre
Stump-retained treatment: approximately $300 per acre
The smooth-pasture contract totaled $65,000 based on an estimated 25 acres. Later mapping indicated that the actual smooth treatment area was closer to 20 acres. The acreage and payment difference will be documented separately as a land-measurement and contracting lesson.
Observations
Smooth ground became substantially easier to cross and access
Much of the visible woody material was removed
Heavy-equipment traffic and exposed soil were visible
Stump-retained ground remained rough and difficult to access
More roots, woody material, and surface structure remained in place
Interpretation
The treatments created a clear economic and operational comparison. The smooth treatment cost almost nine times as much per acre but created a much more equipment-compatible surface.
Actions Taken
Work to establish a useable pasture for cattle as fast as possible
Next Step
Apply common pasture recovery treatments and observe how the two surfaces respond.