Our Mission

At Bradford Woods Conservancy, we are  committed to preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of our community landscapes. Our mission extends beyond mere conservation; we aim to engage the community actively and promote sustainable practices that benefit both our environment and our residents. Together, we can make a significant difference in protecting our natural heritage.

We warmly invite you to become an integral part of our vibrant community. Whether you are a seasoned environmentalist with a wealth of knowledge or someone just beginning to explore the wonders of nature, there is a welcoming place for you here. Together, we can create a lasting impact on our local ecosystem and inspire future generations to cherish and protect our invaluable natural resources.

Art Kasson – President

Art Kasson proudly serves as the President of the Bradford Woods Conservancy, where he leads with passion and dedication. Beyond his role at the conservancy, Art is is engaged in numerous community pursuits.   Boy Scout Troop Leader, fostering a spirit of adventure and responsibility. Additionally, he takes on the rewarding challenge of being a youth soccer coach, where he inspires teamwork and sportsmanship in the next generation.

Gwen Phillips – Vice President

Gwen serves as the dedicated Vice President and chairperson of membership, playing a pivotal role in our organization. In her multifaceted position, she also acts as the vital communications liaison for the conservancy,  utilizing  Facebook and Instagram to connect with our community. Gwen’s  passion for fostering relationships and promoting initiatives shines through  by engaging members and raising awareness about conservancy projects. 

Ward Allebach

Ward is an Environmental Studies professor at Pitt and is proud to have served as president of the Conservancy for 16 years, working with an energetic core of Bradford Woods volunteers to expand programs and services for the community. Starting the My Backyard Woods program has been especially meaningful, reaching hundreds of residents through DCNR property consultations, speaker series and workshops. MBW has helped the Conservancy to expand focus beyond the Bradford Woods Reserve and directly led to the planting of thousands of native trees, shrubs and gardens on both private and public properties.

Diana Berendowski

Diana leads the Volunteer Activities for the Conservancy, organizing impactful work Days in the Reserve that bring the community together. She enhances the welcoming aesthetic of both the borough office and the Firehall by meticulously maintaining annual plantings that bloom with vibrant colors. Her leadership beautifies our public spaces while nurturing a deeper connection between the community and the natural environment, ensuring that the spirit of conservation continues to thrive in Bradford Woods.

Vicki Weigand

Vicki iprovides invaluable service in the essential role of our recording secretary. Every July, she masterfully curates the enchanting Storytelling Night, fun summertime community  gathering where families come together to weave their favorite tales, crafting memories at a uniquely Bradford Woods tradition. In December, Vicki transforms the Reserve into a winter wonderland with her leadership of Light Up Night, a festive celebration that envelops us in warmth and holiday spirit. These events are thoughtfully crafted to deepen connections and provide joyful experiences for families and friends to cherish together.

Joe Bayer Treasurer

Since the very beginning of the Conservancy, Joe has been a dedicated board member and currently holds the vital role of Treasurer. His extensive knowledge in botany and horticulture has proven to be invaluable, significantly contributing to the success of numerous projects undertaken by the Conservancy over the years. Joe’s passion for plant life and commitment to environmental stewardship continue to inspire those around him.

Hilary Falo

Hilary passionately orchestrates work days for the Lake Loop Trail module, bringing a keen eye for detail and a commitment to maintaining access to this unique public green space.

In addition to her many wonderful talents, Hilary makes amazing apple pies. 

Anna Romanowsky

Anna is president of the Home Owner Association in Bradford Woods Village. 

Lisa Hladio

Lisa is Director of WoodsLife a program for elementary school age children which fosters appreciation for the natural world around us

Woods Life brings camps and events to Pittsburgh’s North Hills all year long. Through outdoor exploration, experiential learning, community, and growth, WoodsLife provides screen-free creative play and nature-based discovery to everyone.

Richard Sorek

Many hats are worn to run the Conservancy, and during Storytelling Night in 2025, Rick embraced the spirit of the occasion by donning a tri-corner colonial hat  to deliver a presentation in the guise of Thomas Bradford, the esteemed founder of Bradford Woods. You can read the entire presentation here. In addition to his storytelling , Rick has taken on the important tasks of revising the website and raising essential funds for the Conservancy. 

Nicole Noga

Nicole is the former Director of Operations at Tree Pittsburgh, bringing with her a rich tapestry of experience in the management of natural resources. Her positive energy and unwavering enthusiasm are invaluable assets to our community. In May, she successfully coordinated the Plant Swap, an event that  encouraged the exchange of native plants and fostered a sense of community among local gardening enthusiasts.

Beyond her impressive credentials, Nicole is deeply committed to building connections within the community through environmental stewardship. Her innovative ideas have sparked new initiatives that invite residents to engage in sustainable practices, making nature both accessible and enjoyable promoting a greener, more vibrant future for Bradford Woods.