Safeguarding the rich flora and fauna of Cuba is one of the most important tasks performed by forestry workers, who stand as the eternal guardians of our ecosystem.
This work, which may seem simple at first glance, actually requires deep knowledge, sensitivity towards nature, self-protection skills, and exceptional ingenuity, especially in times when resources are scarce.
To honor the men and women responsible for preserving the natural heritage of the Cuban nation, June 21st is celebrated as Forestry Worker Day, a date commemorated since 1975 coinciding with the first day of summer and the rainiest month in Cuba, a time when the seedlings are ready to be transferred to the fields.
Forest workers play a fundamental role in the preservation of forests that not only provide us with the vital oxygen we breathe, but also serve as the home to thousands of animal and plant species.
However, despite their importance, the protection of these ecosystems faces serious threats. According to a report from the Cuban Forest Rangers, between January 1st and February 24th, 2025, around 70 wildfires were recorded, affecting 161.55 hectares of forests, with human negligence being the main cause.
A more recent analysis reported about 290 fires in the first five months of the year, concentrating in regions such as Pinar del Rio, Isla de la Juventud, and Cienfuegos. In Holguin, several fires occur annually, some of considerable magnitude, especially in areas with dense forest cover such as Pinares de Mayari.
In these events, forestry workers play a crucial role, collaborating with the fire department and other organizations to combat the flames that threaten both the environment and human life.
Fires that pose a real danger to the life of any human being, and not the only one, as these brave workers also face multiple other risks: from injuries during logging to hearing problems due to the constant use of heavy machinery, as well as diseases resulting from inhalation of smoke and exposure to chemical substances.
Therefore, it is imperative to promote a greater awareness from childhood about the importance of caring for and preserving our forests, as well as recognizing the sacrifice and dedication of those who work to protect them.
The best tribute on Forest Workers’ Day would be to work together to reduce the alarming statistic that indicates that 95% of fires are caused by violations of safety regulations and illegal activities. Although other factors such as droughts, accumulation of combustible materials, and the impact of climate change also play a role.
The preservation of green in our landscapes will continue to be the main challenge for these guardians of nature who will celebrate their main event this year at the Guama Agroforestry Company, in Santiago de Cuba, as announced by William Licourt Gonzalez, the general secretary of the National Union of Agricultural, Forestry, and Tobacco Workers.
Let us together celebrate the bravery and commitment of these workers with the land we inhabit, recognizing that its work is essential for a sustainable and healthy future, where the green of the forests accompanies us.
By: Leannis Berbén Leyva
Translated by Aliani Rojas Fernandez
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