Ep 2. The Woodsman

In Port Protection season 4 episode 2, titled "The Woodsman," viewers are taken on a journey with Rich Lewis, a local expert in woodcutting and building.

The episode begins with Rich attempting to clear a patch of land by removing a thick layer of brush to create a space to build a greenhouse. He struggles to find the right tools to get the job done, causing him to reflect on times when he had access to all the equipment he needed and took those materials for granted. Throughout the episode, Rich discusses his love of woodworking and how it has become a passion for him over time. He explains that he loves the challenge of working with his hands and figuring out how to make pieces fit together perfectly, and how his woodworking skills have helped him survive in the remote wilderness.

As the episode progresses, Rich takes on a new challenge: building a cabin from scratch. He navigates the rough terrain, gathering materials from the surrounding woods and streams. He approaches each task with precision and care, carefully choosing which trees to fell, planning out each cut in advance, and ensuring that every piece of wood is used to make something useful. He speaks about his connection to nature and the satisfaction he receives from sourcing his materials directly from the land, and how much his life has changed since he started living off the grid.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given an inside look into the daily lives of the residents of Port Protection. The community is dotted with strong-willed individuals who have chosen to live away from modern society and rely on themselves for their livelihoods. Rich, in particular, is emblematic of this way of life, where every day is a new challenge, and every task requires ingenuity and resourcefulness.

In one particularly poignant scene, Rich talks about his relationship with his father and how he was inspired by his dad's love of the outdoors. He notes that his father's work as a lumberjack deeply influenced him, and he has spent his life attempting to live up to his father's legacy. When he talks about his father, there is a palpable sense of pride and admiration in his voice, and it's clear that he hopes to make him proud with his own woodworking.

The show does an excellent job of connecting viewers with the natural world around Port Protection. We see Rich go on hikes to find rare and beautiful plants, explore the underwater world of the surrounding bays, and live off the land in ways that few people today can comprehend. The series' stunning cinematography captures the rugged beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, making it clear why Rich and others have chosen to make this inhospitable land their home.

Overall, Port Protection season 4 episode 2, "The Woodsman," is a captivating exploration of the intersection between human ingenuity and the natural world. Rich Lewis's passion and dedication for woodworking are infectious, and viewers will undoubtedly come away with a deep appreciation for the skill and resourcefulness required to survive in a remote region like Port Protection. Whether you're a fan of woodworking or simply enjoy shows that explore humanity's relationship with nature, this episode is not one to miss.