Our team is at the heart of everything we do at the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council, and we’re excited to share their stories with you! In our “Meet the Team” series, we’ll highlight the passionate individuals who make our work possible—sharing their roles, inspirations, and favorite moments along the river. From personal reflections to environmental insights, this series is a way for you to connect with the people behind the WRWC and learn what drives them to protect and celebrate the Woonasquatucket River and its watershed.
Meet the Team: Phil Mattes (he,they)
Bike Programming Manager
We’re excited to spotlight the awesome people who make WRWC what it is! Today, meet Phil!
How long have you been part of the WRWC team?
Since September 2024.
Is there something about the Woonasquatucket River or the work WRWC does that you wish more people understood? What would you like to shout from the rooftops about our mission?
I would love for more people to know that the WRWC strives to get more people active in the community not only by being stewards of the Greenway, but also by creating social infrastructure for individuals to join.
What’s an environmental issue close to your heart that you’d love to see the community tackle? Why is this one especially important to you?
Car-centric communities and not enough investment in public transportation are issues I care deeply about changing. It’s often said that the things we dislike most about cities—such as traffic congestion, lack of walkability, air pollution, and noise—all boil down to cars. Car-centric design creates barriers that prevent us from fully enjoying the best aspect of urban areas: community.
Do you have a favorite spot along the river or in the watershed? What makes it special to you?
Riverside Park is quickly becoming my favorite spot along the Greenway. Not only is it home to the Red Shed, it has so many aspects to it. There is the stage, the playground, the community garden, and the riverside walk. It’s also right next to the historic Atlantic Mills with such incredible tenants!
If you could share one small action with people that would help make a difference for the environment, what would it be?
Ride a bike, equipped with a rear rack and a bike bag, on a household errand (such as a trip to Trader Joe’s) and experience the difference.
If you could instantly master any skill or hobby, what would it be?
Being polylingual.
Do you have a favorite plant or tree, or maybe a “green thumb” tip you swear by?
Favorite forage: Chicken of the woods.
Favorite tree: White pines—they make great ground to sleep under if you can find the space between the roots.
Favorite plant: Pokeweed.
Favorite kitchen hack: Put the roots of green onions in my hydroponic garden to get double the amount of green onions. Works for other veggies and herbs too.
Is there an animal (wild or pet) that you feel a special connection to, or one that always makes you smile?
A great blue heron holds a special place in my heart. There was one that taught me humility and how to see the beauty in the everyday aspects of nature by covering my car from front to back—not once, but three times—with its droppings. I like to believe it was the same bird that often joined me for my morning coffee when I worked at the Discovery Center in Philadelphia.
Anything else you’d like to share with the world?
All good.