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Forestry Consultation
Our team offers expert guidance and basic forestry information to help landowners make informed decisions about managing their forested lands
At LRLEAN, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive assistance and support to landowners in central Alabama. Our services cover a wide range of forestry-related needs, ensuring that landowners have the knowledge and resources necessary to effectively manage their properties. Here are some of the key services we offer.
Our team offers expert guidance and basic forestry information to help landowners make informed decisions about managing their forested lands
We help landowners find reputable vendors for various forestry activities, including herbicide application, firelane construction, heavy mechanical site prep, prescribed burning, reforestation, and green field/opening construction.
We specialize in crafting tailored landscape management plans that align with landowners’ goals and objectives for their properties.
LRLEAN assists landowners in achieving Tree Farm certification, recognizing their commitment to sustainable forest management practices.
We aid landowners in obtaining Farm and Tract numbers through the Farm Service Agency (FSA), streamlining administrative processes for property identification and management.
LRLEAN guides landowners through the implementation of Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) programs, maximizing opportunities for conservation and stewardship.
We support Heir Property landowners in navigating legal challenges and obtaining clear title to their properties, ensuring secure ownership for future generations.
Through workshops, seminars, and educational sessions, we educate groups about the benefits of forest stewardship and land retention, fostering a deeper appreciation for sustainable land management practices.
At LRLEAN, we are committed to empowering landowners and enhancing the health and productivity of Alabama’s forested landscapes. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your forestry goals.
Contact Us
At LRLEAN, we are deeply grateful for the invaluable partnerships that help us fulfill our mission of supporting limited resource landowners in Alabama. Through collaboration with a diverse array of organizations and agencies, we are able to extend our reach, enhance our impact, and better serve the communities we are proud to be a part of.
Born in Salina, Kansas, I spent my childhood moving through Connecticut, Missouri, and finally settling in Alabama in 1986. Today, I am a husband to my wife, Brandi, of 25 years and a proud father to three daughters and two sons. Professionally, I spent two decades as a Forestry Specialist with the Alabama Forestry Commission, where I worked across several counties, honing my expertise in forestry. In 2021, I joined LRLEAN as a Forestry Consultant. Since then, I have been traveling across Alabama, advocating for forest stewardship and its crucial role in land retention. Outside of work, I am passionate about mission work and volunteering. My personal interests include foraging, hiking, photography, and music-making, activities that allow me to connect with nature and creativity. My commitment to forestry and land stewardship is also a family affair. My father, a co-founder of LRLEAN, continues to guide and inspire as he serves as an advisor to the organization. Together, we are committed to nurturing and protecting our natural heritage for future generations.
Born in the small town of Eutaw, AL, on April 12, 1953, I grew up in a household with six siblings, where my parents instilled the values of hard work, perseverance, and kindness. As a child, I was always curious and enjoyed exploring nature, fishing, and hunting. These early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for the outdoors, ultimately shaping my career.
During my high school years, I discovered a passion for sports, which taught me valuable skills in teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. After graduating, I attended Shelton State Technical College, where I majored in electronics. In 1972, I met the love of my life, Leana M. Smith, and we married in 1975, raising four beautiful daughters together.
In 1977, I began working with the Alabama Forestry Commission, learning forest land management techniques and later helping others care for their land. My community involvement has included roles such as active church member, volunteer firefighter, little league football coach, EMA Director of Greene County, and current member of LRLEAN (Limited Resource Landowners Education Assistance Network), where I assist landowners in creating wealth and managing their farmland.
Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for the experiences that have shaped me. From my love of nature and early challenges to my professional and community contributions, each chapter has guided me toward self-discovery and fulfillment. Life is a story, and I am proud to share mine and pass on my knowledge to future generations.
Keisha Turner Abrahams obtained her Criminal Justice degree from the University of Alabama and a
Juris Doctorate degree from Howard University School of Law. As she is passionate about
community outreach and helping others navigate legal challenges, Mrs. Abrahams uses her skills
to support landowners through the legal maze of heirs property both through her work with LRLEAN
as well as at the Turner Law Firm in Marion, AL. Keisha has three daughters – Madison 16, Aubrey
10, and her bonus daughter Destiny who is 22. She wears a number of hats in both community and
civic organizations – member and Community Scholarship Chair of the Order of Eastern Star
Gardenia Chapter No. 792, youth director at Bethel Hill Missionary Baptist Church, and board
member of The United Christian Community Association, (TUCCA).
Keisha and her husband Jammie are busy running their farm and dog kennel, working in their
church and community, and attending any number of their children’s softball, volleyball and track
competitions, dance shows, girl scout events, theatre productions, and the list goes on. However,
they most enjoy traveling and quiet evenings at home with their kids.
Jerry Lacey is the founder of the Limited Resource Landowner Education and Assistance Network (LRLEAN), a nonprofit serving underserved landowners across Central Alabama. He has been a leader in the Sustainable Forestry and Land Retention Project, working with partners such as USDA, Alabama A&M University, and the US Endowment for Forestry and Communities. His efforts focus on helping families retain their forestland, navigate heirs’ property challenges, and access conservation programs. As Mr. Lacey has explained, his commitment is rooted in stewardship: “For me, it’s about the future of the Lacey family, our property, and our grandchildren.”
Krishauntes Wortham, a dedicated Event Coordinator with a passion for turning ideas into unforgettable experiences. Originally from Detroit and now based in Alabama, Krishauntes brings a unique blend of resilience, creativity, and strong organizational skills to every event she helps bring to life.
With an eye for detail and a heart for connection, she is committed to ensuring every event is thoughtfully planned, smoothly executed, and leaves a lasting impression on everyone involved. Her passion lies not only in coordinating events, but in creating meaningful moments that bring people together and foster genuine community.
Beyond her professional work, Krishauntes is also a proud and devoted mother to her 10-year-old daughter. She balances her career and family life with grace, finding fulfillment and joy in both roles. Her dedication, warmth, and drive shine through in everything she does, making her an invaluable asset to any team or event experience.
LaQuita Samuel-Williams serves as the Marketing Communications Leader for LRLEAN, where she helps share the organization’s mission through meaningful storytelling, community engagement, and strategic communication. With a passion for connecting people and amplifying the voices of landowners and rural communities across Alabama, she brings creativity, professionalism, and heart to every project she leads.
In addition to her work in communications, LaQuita is a dedicated Math Coach at Englewood Elementary School and has spent 15 years in education supporting students, teachers, and academic growth. Her background in education has strengthened her ability to communicate effectively, build relationships, and create impactful learning and outreach experiences.
LaQuita is also a devoted wife and proud mother of two handsome boys, balancing her professional leadership with a deep commitment to family and community. Her passion for service, education, and empowerment continues to inspire the work she does both inside and outside the classroom.
Hello! I am proud to have been raised and had the opportunity to grow up in rural West Alabama. I was born and raised in Lamar County, Alabama. After graduation from South Lamar High School, I attended Bevill State Community College in Fayette, AL and then received my B.S. in Forestry from Mississippi State University. I worked in the private sector before going to work for the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC). I retired from the AFC with 27+ years, most spent in rural West Alabama. I did have the privilege to serve at the Calhoun Co Forester, Jefferson Co Forester, Pickens Co Forester, and lastly as Tombigbee Work Unit Manager. My work experience allowed me to meet many landowners and forestry professionals throughout the beautiful state of Alabama. My service to the community has been in several forms. I am a current Alabama Tree Farm Committee member, current Warrior District Tree Farm Inspector, past Alabama Tree Farm chair, past chair of the North Pickens NWTF, and past Pickens County Commissioner.
My wife, Dawn and our two children have called Pickensville, AL home since 2015. I have been blessed to work and raise a family in and around our natural resources. My hobbies include hunting, fishing, and volunteering with Pickens Anglers, a high school fishing team as well as volunteering with Golden Triangle Outdoors, an organization focused around making the lives of special needs individuals more fulfilling and complete.
I am excited to join LRLEAN as a Registered Forester and continue to utilize my skillset assisting landowners, providing educational workshops, assisting with active forest management, and providing a sustainable network of help for all landowners throughout Alabama.
I was raised in a very rural community in Baldwin County, Alabama. I spent grades 1-8 at a small rural community school. Our 8th grade graduating class had 14 students. I attended grades 9-12 at Robertsdale High School. After graduating high school I attended Faulkner State Junior College in Bay Minette, AL, for 2 years before transferring to Auburn University where I graduated with a B.S. in Forestry Management. Following graduation, I worked as an intern for the research forester at a forest industry. After slightly over one year I took a temporary position with the Alabama Forestry Commission measuring research plots across the state for one summer then transferred from the temporary position to a permanent position in Greene County as a staff forester where I was blessed to work with Earnest Edmonds and Hodges Smith, two men who were able to teach me much about forestry in the blackbelt region and its prairie soils. I continued working as a forester for the Alabama Forestry Commission for slightly over 34 years. In that time, I had different titles and worked in Fayette, Pickens, Lamar and Sumter Counties, but most of my years there were spent working with landowners and government agencies in providing technical forestry advice. Now that I am privileged to work for LRLEAN, I hope to continue to meet and assist landowners in managing their forestry properties. I have been blessed by GOD to be able to work in a field I enjoy and to meet some wonderful people.