About this time last year, we researched land clearing and the related costs. We did not want to rip pin to pin, so we ruled out using a D-9. Instead, we looked at companies that used smaller excavators. We found at that time they were all charging about the same price - about $130.00/hour, give or take a few bucks. Maybe with the current economic situation these prices are no longer the norm.

Mikale "on track" did all of the clearing, grading, and leveling on our lot in HA. He is reliable. He only cleared what we asked him to clear. When we encountered roadblocks (and there will always be roadblocks), he offered good suggestions that allowed us work around the obstacles. When our driveway plan had to be altered, its new course took it through a beautiful patch of Hapu'u that we didn't want to lose. He took the time to relocate each of them. He does quality work, is easy-going, and friendly, but most of all, we know we can trust him.

http://picasaweb.google.com/BlueWaterProjects/FredNoraSmith is a link to pictures showing some of the progress made on our lot. (Mikale and his wife are shown in the first picture.) He did all of the clearing and grading (and even leveled an area and set our container).

OK, so that's my recommendation. We wish you the best of luck building your new home.

Aloha  Fred and Nora Smith 

Aloha, if you truely want to preserve some of your land and want the job done right the first time, definately go with On Track. Mikale and his machine are amazing!! Customers are starting to call him the "Land Whisperer". He knows what he is doing and it shows in his work. I know he does alot of jobs in your area, maybe he is close. If you read his thread, it says if he is in your neighborhood, no charge for hauling. Worth a phone call.

Last thing, with the economy the way it is, you may find plenty of competetive rates. However; here on the Big Island you can't beat a good reputation with multiple referrals.

I bought a lot in Orchidland last year, I will be clearing for house coming up soon and I am definately going with ON Track Equipment, it's a No Brainer!

Sandra Jordan

I've had two folks do work for me and I liked them both. Mikale did a great job clearing and hammering out a few places that needed hammering. I'd use him for larger, multi day jobs and that sounds like what you might have. As for the lawn, I'm putting a small one in so I have a place for friends to gather that's not cinder and not pahoehoe and not my sweet potato patch. Good luck with your plans.