New scholarship honors City Wildlife Biologist Todd Black

A new scholarship honoring the legacy of Eagle Mountain City Wildlife Biologist Todd Black was formally announced during the Eagle Mountain City Council’s Tuesday meeting.

The Todd A. Black Wildlife Alliance Scholarship is a collaborative effort between the Eagle Mountain Nature and Wildlife Alliance and the Eagle Mountain Founders Group. Beginning in 2026, the scholarship will be available to Eagle Mountain high school students, with the goal of supporting education while honoring Black’s contributions to wildlife education and conservation in the community.

Black passed away at his home in Nibley, Utah in September of this year at the age of 59.

Dustin Wagner, speaking on behalf of the Eagle Mountain Nature and Wildlife Alliance, explained how the scholarship is expected to grow into a significant opportunity for local students and residents.

“This is going to have a great impact on our citizens. It’s going to have a great impact on our city,” Wagner said, “But what I want to highlight is the impact it will have in cementing Todd’s legacy here.”

Wagner reflected on Black’s work ethic and dedication, recalling that whenever he met with Black, “He had mud on his boots,” speaking to his hands-on approach and commitment to Eagle Mountain’s natural spaces. He also expressed gratitude to Black’s family, acknowledging the time Black spent away from them in service to the city.

Todd Black’s wife, Pat Black, addressed the council and community, offering heartfelt thanks for the recognition and support.

“I won’t list names because I’ll forget somebody, but I do want to say this,” she said. “I want to thank the mayor and the employees here at Eagle Mountain.”

During the meeting, Pat Black read a letter written by her oldest grandson, Orson, addressed to Todd. The note ended with a poignant message: “I hope you have a great Christmas in heaven. Tell Jesus happy birthday! Love, Orson. P.S. When you come down, can you hunt with me?”

Pat Black also spoke about her and Todd’s own experiences with student loans, explaining how meaningful it would have been to Todd to help ease that burden for others.

“I know Todd would be smiling if he could benefit anyone through a scholarship,” Pat said.

City leaders and community members said the scholarship recognizes Todd Black’s contributions to Eagle Mountain and is intended to carry his work forward.