Our mission

 We are dedicated to saving the 20.3-acre Buttonhook forest/Zauderer property in Chappaqua, NY from development ​and keeping it forever protected. We are working with the
​Brothertown Indian Nation to make this a reality. 

Special Event! 
Come visit this unique and sacred place. New tours dates added monthly! 

See for yourself

In this 90 second clip, you'll travel across part of the sacred complex and hear briefly from two Indigenous experts on the importance of preserving this unique site. 

We offer our gratitude to Tyler A. Chase and L'ORAGE Productions for creating and authorizing the use of this footage from the feature documentary film in development and production, tentatively called Always Here​.

All imagery and sound from this footage is the sole property of L'ORAGE Productions. 

Let the Land Speak

JUNE 2025 UPDATE: The Fight to Save Buttonhook Forest
When the World Feels Out of Control, Start Here.

In a time of climate chaos, cultural erasure, and environmental loss, you can make a difference. Right here in Chappaqua, a sacred forest is under threat. Home to endangered species, ancient Native ceremonial stonework, and the headwaters of our drinking water, Buttonhook Forest’s fate is in our hands.

This is more than a local issue. If we can’t protect 20 acres in our own backyard, what hope do we have for the planet? Now is the moment to act—locally, powerfully, together. When we protect Buttonhook, we stand up for the future
Legal Action & Status
Despite strong community advocacy, development plans remain alive. Here’s where things stand:
  • Subdivision Still Active: CCSD continues to pursue a six-lot luxury subdivision, recently securing another 6-month extension from the Town of New Castle (May 2025).
  • Lawsuits Ongoing: Developer CG Homes’ lawsuit against the school district continues. While damages were denied, the contract was upheld. Both parties have appealed. Next court date: June 24, 2025.
  • Environmental Challenge: In February, FoBF filed an Article 78 motion challenging the Town’s failure to require a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Court responses are due July 2025.
  • Incomplete Early Studies: New data on cultural, archaeological, and ecological impacts contradict earlier reviews.​​
Picture
James Cachat, First Nations elder, watching sunrise near the Sacred Stones on private land adjacent to Buttonhook Forest.
The school board is holding two deposits: $100,000 from the developer and $100,000 from our community-backed preservation bid.
​
A peaceful exit from litigation is still possible: accept our bid and preserve Buttonhook forever.
Picture
Friends of Buttonhook Forest were honored to host a group of young people from the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians. Made possible by The Center at Mariandale and the Dominican Sisters of Hope.
Community & Indigenous Leadership
Even amid legal battles, Buttonhook Forest is thriving as a site of public learning and spiritual renewal:
  • 40+ guided forest tours
  • Earth Day Celebration at Chappaqua Performing Arts Center
  • “Art in the Woods” with Megan Dyer
  • Storytelling with Grandmother Nancy Andry
  • Stockbridge-Munsee youth visits (Aug. 2024 & June 2025)
  • School education at Grafflin Elementary
  • Programs with regional experts and cultural leaders
  • Community outreach at Bedford 2030, Green Ossining, and more

Indigenous elders, hydrogeologists, and archaeologists have affirmed the land’s cultural and ecological significance. Visit our History Page for a more detailed account. 

Become a friend of Buttonhook ...

​See FAQ's for donation details
Please contribute so we protect Buttonhook forever!

Preservation is vital for...

ECOSYSTEM

These 20.3 acres are part of a rare 100-acre “carbon sink” that's helping to fight climate change.
​
​If the subdivision is approved 676 trees would be clearcut and bedrock blasted, leading to habitat loss, soil erosion, noise, air, and water pollution.

EDUCATION

As parents, we want our schools to do more than just talk about  Climate Change, Green Initiatives, Sustainability, and, Native American history. Saving this vibrant ecosystem offers a unique opportunity to stand in integrity, lead by example, and put into action practices they teach.  

HERITAGE

Native American sacred ceremonial stone landscapes have been identified and verified on two adjacent properties and in the  Buttonhook forest. Protecting these rare structures will  preserve this vital history and be a big step towards reparations to the First Nations 

Want to see what's worth saving? 

Join us for a Guided Walking Tour of Buttonhook forest and recently discovered Native American Ceremonial Site located in the woods in the Valley Ridge section of Chappaqua, NY.  New dates add weekly. Space limited.
If not you, who? 
​If not now, when?​

The plan

Is for the community to raise enough money to provide the
school district ​​with a healthier alternate to development.

HELP TO

Spread the word
We need more voices speaking up for the planet, our children's future, and Indigenous rights. Join and invite others to join the Facebook Group, and share the fact sheet.

LET'S WORK TO

Raise funds
Every donation counts! Please give what you can on our Go Fund Me campaign. To date, we're raised just over 60K. Also, follow us on Instagram @SaveButtonhook,

IT'S UP TO US TO

Come together
There are many people working hard on this project but we can't do it alone. Join the mailing list to learn about the varous ways you can join the efforts, whether you're a behind the scenes supporter or a vocal activist!
Photo Credits: Top Banner and photo of stone prayers are from the upcoming film, Always Here,
a L'ORAGE Production, All Rights Reserved. With permission from Tyler A Chase.
Preserve Buttonhook
P.O. Box 722
Chappaqua, New York 10514

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