If you need to clear a site for a building, one of the things we run up against is tree stumps. I spent hours researching how to do this, but I could not find any good way that I could use with the limited tools that I had. So I worked the problem and found a way that worked well for spruce trees.
Tools: Small tractor (33hp), chainsaw, chains, good sized wedge
When I cut the tree down, I left about 24 inches so that I had something to work with. I then took my chain saw and quartered the stump. Using my wedge, I then split open the stump so that I could get a stick inside to keep it apart. I needed enough space to slide the chain through. Using the chain, I then tied onto one quarter of the stump and pulled it with the tractor. If I managed to cut the stump deep enough, the section of stump would peel away.
With smaller stumps I just cut them in half instead and that seemed to work well.
When all done, I ended up with a nice hole and four large sections of roots that came out with the stump.
I urge some caution as you don't want the chain to snap and whip back at you when doing this type of work. So I took it easy and tried not to jerk the chain while doing the pull. I was able to accomplish the stump removals with relative safety. I've not tried this with poplar trees or really big stumps yet, but it worked with medium to smaller stumps. I was pleased with the results. Took me several days to figure out how to do this! I hope it saves you time. Anybody got any other ideas on how to do it with limited equipment?
