05/08/2026
After 10+ years in this field, someone decided to vandalize one of my machines. I had just dropped it off at a property here in town, and unfortunately, someone intentionally damaged one of the hydraulic hoses — resulting in the machine being down for the day and leaving me with a repair bill.
I’ve always tried to live and run my business with honesty, integrity, and good intentions. I also believe I’ve been a solid business partner among fellow contractors and colleagues — always willing to help where I can with advice, guidance, or simply lending a hand.
I understand this line of work is competitive, and there are many of us offering similar services. But I also believe there is enough work out there for everyone willing to work hard, operate honestly, and provide excellent customer service.
Even in the land clearing and excavation industry, I’ve always done my best to respect and protect our natural environment. I take pride in educating customers on proper land management, preserving trees and vegetation when possible, and doing my part to help protect “Rural Florida” from overdevelopment and careless growth.
To the person who vandalized my machine: you didn’t hurt a corporation. You hurt the sole owner, operator, mechanic, laborer, bookkeeper, etc.
As a small business owner, I wear every hat — and I’m also the sole provider for my family.
While this was an unfortunate situation, it will not stop me from continuing to provide for my family, serve my customers, and operate as an honest, hardworking small business owner.
I’m choosing to take this as both a lesson and a reminder: never get too comfortable, even in your own hometown.
And when people try to tear you down, it often means you’re making an impact.
Sabotaging someone else’s equipment will never create more opportunity for yourself, nor will it stop progress. What truly builds lasting success is being honest, fair, ethical, knowledgeable, and treating both the land and people with respect.
Stay blessed, everyone.
— Ryan Stanford
Stanford Land Management LLC
