Agricultural properties are very common in the Pacific Northwest and they can vary from smaller acreages with smaller paddocks to medium sized pastures and also vast fields. Native field grasses in the Pacific Northwest and hardy, fast growing and adaptable. Not only do native grasses make for essential grazing of stock and horses, they also are commonly used for hay in the summer months, stocking up for use during the winter months when the native grasses are dormant.
Just as important is that healthy field grasses provide a competitive groundcover against invasive species that may seek to take a foothold and crowd out vast areas of property. Western Washington is home to many native and invasive species of brush, including Scotch Broom, Himalayan Blackberry, Salmonberry, soapberry in addition to native aggressive tree species including Alder and Cottonwood.
A healthy field grass mix, when correctly maintained can also help protect sloped property and property adjacent to streams, rivers and ponds from damaging erosion during heavy rainfall. Fields and pastures are commonly home to rodents, rabbits and insects. Some of these rodents include moles, voles and gophers, which can burrow underground and these tunnels can cave in, leaving dangerous holes that can injure horses and stock. Regular mowing is critically important to maintain a healthy balance of these pests, which use tall grass as shelter against predators. If the local ecosystem is in balance, natural predators including foxes and coyotes can keep rabbit and rodent populations under control.
Regular mowing of your field or pasture can reduce fire risk in the hot summer months when grass fires are common. It also can help to maintain a tidy appearance to your property, especially in areas that may take issue if your property is overgrown and looks unkept. It also allows more versatility in your property, as some owners lease their property to others that may own horses or livestock. Some also use open spaces as event spaces in the warm summer months.
Additionally, a healthy pasture can easily be converted to agricultural purposes for wheat, corn and a multitude of other crops.
Graystone Tractor Services offers affordable field mowing services. Call / text us at (360) 542-6460 or fill out our free estimate request form.