George David Scott III - 2024
- TCHOF
- Nov 1, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 24
Cattleman
Induction Year: 2024
Born: February 4, 1938, Houston, Texas
Primary Discipline: Ranching
Profession / Role: Cattleman and Livestock Industry Executive
Primary Skills: Cattle Marketing and Commission Operations, Stocker Cattle Management, Agricultural Leadership and Governance
Known For: Sixth-generation Texas cattleman and leader within the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. Longtime executive of Port City Stockyards and advocate for Texas ranching and land conservation.
Early Life and Background
George David “Dave” Scott III was born on February 4, 1938, in Houston, Texas. A sixth-generation cattleman and descendant of Stephen F. Austin’s Old Three Hundred, Scott was raised in a family deeply rooted in Texas ranching tradition. His upbringing instilled a lifelong commitment to livestock production and agricultural stewardship.
He attended Houston public schools before continuing his education at Sam Houston State University and the University of Houston. Alongside his academic pursuits, Scott developed practical experience in livestock operations that would define his professional life. He also served in the Texas National Guard.
Professional Career and Rise
In 1960, Scott became a partner with his father in the Scott Livestock Commission Company. Established in 1931, the firm was the first commission company located at Port City Stockyards in Houston. Through decades of involvement, Scott helped guide the company’s growth and reputation within Texas livestock markets, ultimately serving as executive vice president of Port City Stockyard Company.
In addition to commission operations, Scott operates G.D. Scott Cattle Company based in Richmond, Texas. Over the course of his career, he has maintained partnerships in multiple Texas counties and managed stocker cattle operations not only in Texas but also in Oklahoma, New Mexico, Kansas, and Colorado. His work reflects a broad understanding of cattle marketing, grazing management, and regional livestock economics.
Scott’s leadership extended into statewide and national industry organizations. In 1989, he was elected a director of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA). He later served as chairman of its Marketing Committee and was elected president in 2009 for a two-year term. He continues to serve on the association’s Executive Board.
He has also been active with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association as a member and board participant. His involvement in these organizations has contributed to policy development, marketing initiatives, and advocacy for cattle producers.
Legacy and Impact
Dave Scott’s legacy is defined by multigenerational stewardship and sustained leadership within Texas agriculture. His work in livestock commission operations strengthened cattle marketing infrastructure in the Houston region, while his ranching operations demonstrate long-term commitment to practical cattle management across multiple states.
Beyond private enterprise, Scott has provided extensive public service. In 2009, he was appointed by Governor Rick Perry to the Board of Directors of the Brazos River Authority and was later appointed chairman of the board. He has been reappointed to leadership roles by subsequent administrations and currently serves on the Texas Farm and Ranch Land Conservation Council by gubernatorial appointment. These positions reflect his involvement in water management, land conservation, and resource policy critical to Texas agriculture.
Scott is a Life Member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and has served as Chairman of the Range Bull and Commercial Heifer Committee. He is also a Life Member of the Fort Bend County Fair Association and Brazoria County Cattlemen’s Association, and a member of the Texas Cattle Feeders Association. Through these roles, he has supported youth agricultural programs, livestock exhibitions, and the development of future ranching leaders.
His induction into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2024 recognizes decades of leadership, service, and dedication to preserving and advancing Texas cattle production traditions.
Later Years
Scott continues to reside in Richmond, Texas, where he remains involved in cattle operations and agricultural governance. His ongoing service on state boards and industry associations reflects his continued influence in ranching policy and conservation initiatives.
He and his wife, Sandra Gayle Scott, have two children and grandchildren.
Honors and Recognition
Director, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, 1989
President, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, 2009–2011
Chairman, Brazos River Authority Board of Directors, 2011
Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame Inductee, 2024
Links and References
Texas State Directory - https://www.txdirectory.com/online/person/?id=35369&office=17297
