The scholarship was named in honor of Roy R. Scott—known to many simply as “Scotty”—a longtime technician with the Talbot Soil Conservation District who dedicated his life’s work to helping farmers and landowners protect and improve the land.

Scotty began his conservation career with the Dorchester Soil Conservation District in 1955 as a federal technician. When the Talbot Soil Conservation District was formed in 1958, he transferred to Talbot and continued serving the community for decades. After 30 years with the Soil Conservation Service (now the Natural Resources Conservation Service), Scotty retired from federal service and began a second chapter of public service—spending an additional 26 years with the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

Throughout his career, Scotty was best known for his engineering expertise, particularly in designing and laying out farm ponds, ditches, drainage improvements, and erosion control solutions. His practical knowledge and steady commitment helped hundreds of landowners and farmers address drainage challenges, reduce erosion, and conserve soil and water resources across Talbot County and the surrounding region.

Above all, Scotty was a man grounded in what mattered most to him—God, family, farming, and protecting our natural resources. This scholarship carries forward his legacy by supporting students who share those values and who are committed to agriculture, conservation, and service to their community.

Talbot Soil Conservation District annually offers a scholarship opportunity for a graduating senior or current college student pursuing a degree focused on agricultural or civil engineering, or an agricultural related program specifically addressing natural resources and/or conservation.

Students have until March 13, 2026 to submit an application for the Roy R. Scott Memorial Scholarship Program. The award recipient will receive up to $1,000.00 to use towards their education. Applicants must be a resident of Talbot County and have a high school or college GPA of 3.0 or better.

Past Scholarship Award Winners

• 2025 - Mackenzie Spies, Phobe Cole and Kiera Bertrand

• 2024 - Faith Walstrum

• 2023 - Jadon Cook, Kara Hutchison & Kylie Weems

• 2022 - Pippa Milhollan

• 2021 - Brandon Dudrow