The leak is coming from above and forward (towards front of the tractor) of the oil filter. Any clues as to what this is and possible repair? It has a 18 hp Kawasaki engine.

Those are common for the pan gasket to be leaking in that area.
Clean off and let run check every now and then and see if you can spot where its running from.
And yes it can be repaired.will have to pull motor and split into.
Luck