Pittsburgh, Pa. − September 24, 2026 − On Tuesday, Good Dog Farm, the Allegheny County Conservation District (ACCD) and Senator Lindsey M. Williams’ office celebrated the completion of a collaborative conservation project at the Farm.
This project helped Good Dog Farm, a 2.5-acre farm in West Deer owned by Lindsay McKee and Brian Wiltrout, manage significant erosion and water runoff. These challenges made the land difficult to work and allowed runoff into the Deer Creek Watershed.
Good Dog Farm partnered with the ACCD, PA Department of Community and Economic Development, and Penn State Extension Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training to transform the site and address these issues. Land that was previously unusable due to severe erosion and flooding is now viable growing space, supporting the Farm’s egg, vegetable, and flower operations.
“Our Pennsylvania constitution guarantees us all access to pure water, and that starts with the health of our streams,” said Senator Williams. “That’s why I prioritize supporting the work of partners like Good Dog Farm and the Allegheny County Conservation District, who are working to improve the health of our shared waterways as they help feed our community.”
“We’re celebrating the completion of a project that took years of planning, problem-solving, and partnership. Just as importantly, we’re recognizing the stewardship of landowners who are proactively investing in their farms and improving our soil and water resources,” said Heather Manzo, ACCD Executive Director. “Good Dog Farm shows what’s possible when farmers have access to funding, resources, and technical assistance. Continued investment in farms like Good Dog helps provide fresh, local food, strengthens our local economy, and protects the soil and water we all depend on.”
A walking tour of Good Dog Farm during the celebration highlighted improvements, including two spring developments, a three-tiered constructed wetland, pipelines, drains, and underground outlets that capture and redirect water, reduce erosion, and create wildlife habitat.
“Responsible stewardship of the land under our care is our primary goal. Managing the flow of water through our farm, which directly enters the local watershed, was an issue that required professional assistance. As first-generation farmers, support from the combined efforts of the conservation district and Sen. Williams’ office was absolutely crucial in realizing our goals. We can now feel comfortable about retaining our topsoil and the impact of our farming activities downstream, as well as effectively providing water to our poultry flock. Without programs like ACAP and the support of local government, farmers like us would be at a loss to both provide food to our local community and protect natural resources,” said Brian Wiltrout, Good Dog Owner and Operator.
Funding and other technical support for this project came from multiple sources, including:
- $185,000 from the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP), administered by ACCD.
- $65,000 from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
- Technical assistance and planning support from ACCD and Penn State Extension Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training (CACAT).
Find more information about the ACCD and the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program here.
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