Welcome to the Limited Resource Landowner Education and Assistance Network (LRLEAN). We are a dedicated nonprofit organization committed to empowering historically underserved landowners across Alabama through education, technical assistance, and advocacy. Our mission is to promote sustainable forestry practices, preserve natural resources, and enhance the economic vitality of rural communities.
At LRLEAN, we believe that land ownership is more than just a financial asset—it's a legacy. We strive to help small acreage landowners, particularly those from underserved communities, retain and make the most of their land. Through our comprehensive support services, we provide critical guidance on forest management, conservation practices, and navigating complex legal issues such as heirs' property.
LRLEAN is committed to fostering a sense of community and resilience among Alabama’s landowners. Whether it's through our workshops, one-on-one consultations, or educational outreach programs, we aim to build knowledge, confidence, and a strong network of support.Together, we can create a sustainable future that honors the land and the people who care for it.
Join us in our mission to cultivate stewardship, support local economies, and strengthen communities across Alabama
The Limited Resource Landowner Education and Assistance Network (LRLEAN) was born out of a profound desire to support minority forest landowners in Alabama, empowering them to maximize the value and sustainability of their land. The inspiration for LRLEAN can be traced back to the 13 Southern States Forestry Meeting, also known as the "Summit of the South," held in Richmond, Virginia, in 1997. This pivotal event ignited a passion for forestry among our founder, Jerry Lacey, and a determination to create an organization that could provide valuable resources and education to underserved communities.
In the early 2000s, a group of dedicated individuals, including Dr. Rory Fraser, Amadou Diop, and members of Tim Boyce's Advisory Group, gathered in Birmingham, Alabama, to establish what would become LRLEAN. Dr. Fraser proposed the name "Limited Resource Landowner Education Assistance Network," which perfectly encapsulated the organization's mission to serve landowners with limited resources. Although the presidency was initially offered to others, our founder, recognizing the importance and potential of the organization, stepped into the leadership role by default and remained at the helm until December, 2023, guiding LRLEAN through its formative years and beyond.
From the outset, LRLEAN's primary goal was to help minority landowners understand the value of their land and increase its potential through participation in various programs, such as those offered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). One of our early milestones was securing a five-year grant (2008-2013) to encourage minority landowners to engage with NRCS offices across 13 predominantly Black counties. This initiative successfully increased participation in grant funding for management plans and EQIP practices. Building on this success, LRLEAN further developed its programs by coining and introducing the concept of "Clustering" in 2018, which involved bringing together funded landowners to implement forest practices collectively. This innovative approach has since been replicated in several counties, demonstrating our commitment to evolving and meeting the needs of our community.
Becoming a part of the Sustainable Forestry African American Land Retention (SFLR) Program in 2013 marked another significant milestone in LRLEAN's journey. Achieving 501(c)(3) status allowed us to participate in this regional network, lifting our visibility on both regional and national levels and connecting us with other organizations engaged in similar work. This partnership has been instrumental in broadening our impact and expanding our reach.
As we reflect on our journey, we remain committed to the values that have guided us from the beginning—helping limited resource landowners create wealth and preserve their land through sustainable practices. Our story is one of perseverance, community engagement, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of land stewardship to transform lives. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue growing, evolving, and making a lasting impact on the landowners we serve.
The Limited Resource Landowner Education and Assistance Network (LRLEAN) is a landowner-operated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underserved landowners across Alabama. Our mission is to provide education, resources, and hands-on assistance to help these landowners protect and enhance their property assets through sustainable forestry and conservation practices.
At LRLEAN, we believe that land ownership is not only a valuable financial asset but also a vital legacy for future generations. We strive to equip landowners, particularly those from historically underserved communities, with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage their land responsibly and profitably. Through comprehensive programs, workshops, and one-on-one support, we aim to foster sustainable land management practices that promote both environmental stewardship and economic resilience.
Our organization is committed to bridging the gap between landowners and the resources they need to succeed. We work closely with a network of partners, including federal and state agencies, local organizations, and industry experts, to deliver customized solutions that meet the unique needs of our landowners. By focusing on sustainable forestry and conservation, we help ensure that Alabama's natural resources are preserved and protected for future generations while enhancing the economic well-being of our communities today.
Together, we are building a future where all landowners have the opportunity to thrive, sustain their property, and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable environment. Join us in our mission to educate, assist, and uplift the underserved landowners of Alabama.
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.
My name is Sharmaine Tyra from Fayette, Alabama. I am the Program Manager. I am a mother of a six-year-old little boy who keeps me extremely busy. I received my associate’s degree in accounting technology from Bevill State Community College in 2013. I continued my education at The University of North Alabama, obtaining my bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2015. I took a few years off before deciding to go back and get my master’s in business administration from The University of West Alabama in 2020. I joined Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated in 2020. I spend most of my spare time at some kind of ball field (football, basketball, or baseball). “NOTHING WILL WORK UNLESS YOU DO” -----MAYA ANGELOU