The 31-year-old had argued with illegal loggers in the area, the Catholic Church's Pastoral Land Commission said.

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The Brazilian plan rests in part on using satellites, laws and police to combat illegal loggers and ranchers.

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According to the non-profit group SocioEnvironmental Institute (ISA), there are now 300 workers -- from indigenous families to former illegal loggers -- who make a living collecting seeds.

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They became activists through practice, defending their property from illegal loggers the same way your dad would against drivers who clip his lawn -- by going out on the curb and yelling at them.

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Local authorities say they often reported on the illegal activities of loggers and cattle ranchers in the region.

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President Lula is currently debating whether to ratify a bill that would grant legal status to illegal settlers and loggers in the Amazon region.

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