How to Safely Use a Forestry Mulcher Attachment

The Forestry Mulcher Attachment: How to Use It Safely

The forestry mulcher attachment is a powerful tool built to clear brush and undergrowth. It can handle storm cleanup, land development prep, or trail maintenance. But because this attachment is so powerful, you should always take certain safety measures when you use it. This guide will help you stay safe while getting the most out of your Bobcat® forestry mulcher. 

Please Note: Reading this article does not make you a trained or qualified operator of the forestry mulcher attachment. Please use this resource in addition to other training materials. 

What is a Forestry Mulcher Attachment?

A forestry mulcher attachment (also called a drum mulcher or a forestry cutter) connects to a skid-steer or compact track loader. It specializes in clearing vegetation, shredding trees, brush, and other debris with high-speed rotating teeth. This attachment should only be used by highly skilled operators with training. 

Forestry Mulcher Safety

The forestry mulcher is powerful enough to throw debris hundreds of feet. Its rotating parts can quickly become a hazard to the untrained operator. For safe operation, we suggest wearing the right gear, outfitting your machine with the forestry kit, and completing regular inspections.  

Personal protective equipment (PPE), or safety gear, includes hard hats, safety glasses, and work boots. Though you should always wear these items while operating a Bobcat loader, they are especially important when using this attachment. If you own your own machine, you must install a forestry applications kit on it before using a forestry cutter. If you’re renting the loader and the attachment, our Rental team will make sure you have everything you need. The forestry applications kit includes: 

• Falling Object Protective Structure (FOPS) 

• Debris shields for lift arm cylinders 

• Hydraulic quick couplers guard 

• Debris screen for the radiator 

• Guards for front and rear lights 

• Polycarbonate top and rear window 

• Fire extinguisher 

• Forestry door 

As a good rule of thumb, inspect your equipment for damage, wear, or leaks. You’ll want to do this before and after you use it. On the loader, look at the screens, air conditioning condenser, oil cooler, and radiator. On the forestry mulcher attachment, look at the drum, carbide teeth and rear debris chains. On the forestry applications kit, inspect the hydraulic quick coupler guard, forestry door, debris shields, lights, top and rear window, and fire extinguisher. If you see anything that’s not functioning properly, stop using the attachment and schedule an appointment with our Service team. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Operating a Forestry Mulcher Safely

1. Pre-Operation Checks 

Before starting, inspect the loader and the attachment. Clear rocks, wire, or metal debris from the job site (these pose safety risks). To prevent fire hazards, remove flammable debris as well (ex: pine needles or leaves). Mark underground utilities and note overhead hazards like tree branches or power lines. 

2. Operating the Forestry Mulcher 

Start the mulcher at a low speed to get a feel for the controls. Keep the attachment close to the ground and avoid steep angles that could destabilize the machine. Always aim debris away from people, structures, or vehicles, and stick to stable ground. 

Here’s a couple other key operation tips we run into a lot with this attachment: 

• If you’re toppling a tree, cut as high as possible, leaving the tree base attached. Apply force quickly to minimize drag and keep the heat of the attachment low. 

• Try not to lower a raised drum mulcher too quickly. If you do, you could stall the loader’s engine. 

• If you’re mulching materials, keep the cutter elevated with skis slightly off the ground. This helps to prevent digging into the soil. 

• If the hydraulic oil or coolant temperatures are too high, stop using the loader and attachment. If you get an overheat warning, allow the loader to cool, and contact our Service department.

3. Post-Operation Steps

After finishing the job, inspect the loader, the drum mulcher, and the forestry applications kit for damage. Clean debris from the machine to reduce fire risks, and store the loader and attachment securely in a dry location. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

• Operating without personal protective equipment 
• Failing to check the machine before operating it 
• Exceeding the machine’s rated operating capacity 
• Operating a forestry cutter without proper training 

Training Resources

Before using a forestry mulcher attachment, take the time to watch this training video. If you still have questions, we can assist you with hands-on operator training, maintenance advice, and assistance with the forestry kit installation.

Safety First, Productivity Second

A forestry mulcher attachment is a very powerful tool, and it can make your life a lot easier on a project. By following these safety guidelines, you’ll keep yourself, your team, and your equipment safe on the job. If you’re interested in buying or renting a forestry mulcher, we can help you find what you’re looking for. Contact your nearest KC Bobcat location to get started!