I had three large (30'+) dying birch trees removed from my front yard and then had the stumps ground. I then removed all the turf and to my dismay the entire front yard is a maze of fibrous roots on the soil surface and probably farther down as well. I can't proceed ahead with rototilling until the roots are gone.

Any idea how far down and extensive birch roots are?

What's the easiest way to rid my soil of roots? Some friends suggested hiring day laborers and have them do it manually. Another friend suggested using an excavator or backhoe. I'm a little leery of the later as the water and gas lines run under the former lawn to my house (not sure how deep they're buried).

I would appreciate any insights you all can provide.

Thanks in advance... kevin