Stars, trees, mountains: Santa Rosa outdoor youth program is using nature to combat gun violence

Danny Chaparro who has the letters ‘Roseland’ tattooed on his knuckles says: ‘I want to highlight my community as a place to not just be alive but thrive.’ Photograph: Shandra Back

Alejandro Elizarraraz stands in the middle of a grassy field with a saw in his hands. On a hillside overlooking the lush forests of northern California, the 18-year-old cuts back brush and branches as a way to help prevent wildfires.

“We’re going to give the tree a high fade cuz it’s 10 feet,” he said, grinning. “You get it?”