The Aquehonga Manoknong Woodland and Natural Areas Stewards group (working name – T.A.M. W.A.N.A.S. – “ten thousand discussions,” in Chinese) was created by the Assertive Kids Foundation in 2023 to further the state of stewardship of Staten Island forests and other unique natural areas.

How? By talking. Listening. Discussing!

Helping bring awareness to protecting wild areas, wildlife, trees, shrubs, and plants.

We are a nonpartisan, nonpolitical  group with members from the political left, center, and right, people who all agree that the island’s open spaces are worth preserving in a dignified manner.

While we respect the work that other island conservation groups are doing, and have done, there is always room for another valid perspective.

And so, that’s us.

Please stay tuned for more. Details coming soon!

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November 29, 2023 UPDATE –  Our stated goals include:

  • preservation and restoration of woodlands and historic areas

  • increased enforcement and fines for metal detecting and removal of buried artifacts in historic areas

  • respect for “invasive species” that wildlife has come to depend upon, shunning nativist ideas and ideals.

  • educating the public on what they can do to help keep Staten Island wild

  • Encouraging islanders to grow shrubs so wildlife has some place to rest, forage, and play

  • encouraging islanders to grow chestnut and other nut trees wildlife thrives on

  • helping bring awareness to the pitfalls of  “Brooklynizing” of a house~! Helping islanders understand why we should have no more TOTAL Lawn or green area removal and REPLACEMENT WITH CONCRETE OR EVEN THE MOST EXPENSIVE OF STONE! No more installation of three side-by-side driveways in front of Staten Island homes. No more parking lots without permits!

  • helping vehicular traffic to flow faster through wild areas through innovative NONDESTRUTIVE mitigation tactics

  • Ensuring that the woodlands are not cut through in any “bait and switch” scheme

  • Keeping a council of Lenape tribal members as part of the Group, as was done traditionally

  • maintaining trails, respecting flora and cutting nothing, only moving

 

If you’re interested in becoming a member, please e-mail us at [email protected].

 

We’re seeking FIVE additional members.

Perhaps you can be one of them!

 

Thank you.