I would burn it. If you burn with a lower relative humidity most of the dead trees and branches will burn up. The small brush and shrubs will die, but will probably remain standing for a while. As for the briars, they usually come back and make an excellent food source for wildlife. Burning is one of the best wildlife management tools you can use. There is nothing that can take its place. It will enhance the timber and create more food for wildlife. I can't think of any animal that will not benefit from burning.

There are a few things to watch out for though. There is a huge liability that comes with burning. You may want to hire a professional to conduct the burn for you. Also, if you burn too often you can damage the timber.