Gavin Deming, Executive Director
In 2017 Gavin established Allegheny GoatScape as a 501c3 non-profit organization to be able to use goats to work with partners, land managers and municipalities to mitigate invasive and unwanted plants throughout Allegheny County in a more ecologically friendly way. Gavin’s desire to properly manage knotweed and other invasives was planted when a friend suggested using a small nomadic herd to eat overgrown vacant lots throughout their neighborhood in Pittsburgh's North Side many years ago. Participating in agriculture policy meetings to make Pittsburgh more “goat-friendly”, followed by working on a project with the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy to bring goats to a public space with immediate positive effects on the landscape, he knew he had to get more involved, and a few years later, Allegheny GoatScape became a reality.

Erin Gaughan, Herd Health Manager
Erin first became involved with Allegheny GoatScape as a volunteer in 2020. She quickly realized how much she loved the organization as it lies at the intersection of her two interests: environmental stewardship and animal care. She was initially hired as our first community engagement coordinator in 2022, formalizing our volunteer program and building it into an essential component of Allegheny GoatScape's operations. In 2025, Erin transitioned to her role as Herd Health Manager, where she oversees the well-being and care of our beloved animals. We are delighted to have her in this position; one that seems she was made for.

Merle Rogers, Operations Manager
Merle is an Etna gardener with a background in arts education, disability and gender justice, and sustainability. When they're not being bossed around by their cat, you can find them in the backyard experimenting with natural dyes, or in the sewing studio mending or making clothes. They're excited to learn more about goats, donkeys, and Pittsburgh's native wildlife. Merle is managing the “human” side of Allegheny GoatScape, overseeing our field work and volunteers, and developing systems to improve our organizational outcomes.

Maggie Rose, Field Supervisor
Maggie has been with Allegheny GoatScape since July 2024 and is now heading the charge for our field work! She is great at problem solving on the fly and her ability to see tasks through is a great asset as she leads the field staff. Maggie is originally from the Cincinnati and Athens, Ohio areas, but has spent plenty of time experiencing the world. We are glad that Maggie has chosen Pittsburgh as her home, and are excited to have her as our Field Supervisor!