EL LEÑERO (THE WOODCUTTER)

Since the early 1800’s, generations of Leñeros have been protecting the Carson National Forest, New Mexico, from fire. Today, this honored tradition is taken up by Alex Lopez and his fellow Leñero’s who maintain countless acres. Through an almost spiritual connection to the land, Alex hopes his efforts will inspire the next generation of Leñeros, saving this small piece of the world.

Back

EL LEÑERO (THE WOODCUTTER)

For centuries, people have relied on healthy forests to provide. One of those people is Alex Lopez. He and his family have lived on the lands near the Carson National Forest for generations, helping to maintain and protect it.

But as wildfires encroach further and more frequently into his ancestral home, Alex leads a coalition of leñeros who dedicate their time and energy to thinning fire fuel in anticipation of the next big blaze. Their work not only weakens wildfires; it also provides free firewood to community members for heating their homes in the remote New Mexico highlands.

Wildfires may be an inevitability, but with proactive care, their destruction can be limited and their management can be beneficial.