The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is pleased to announce that Dr. Kenneth Ostrand has been selected as the new Director of the San Marcos Aquatic Resources Center, located in San Marcos, Texas. Ostrand brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, and he has waded in with both feet in the conservation imperiled organisms found in Texas, that are held at the federal science facility.

Dr. Ostrand is no stranger to the Lone Star State. He grew up in Kingwood near Houston, where he graduated high school. He earned his academic credentials at three Texas institutions: first, a B.S. in Zoology at Texas A&M; an M.A. in Biology at Sam Houston State University; and finally a Ph.D. in Fisheries Science from Texas Technological University where he researched stream-dwelling fishes.

In the 16 years since finishing his doctorate, Ostrand has gained valuable experience in natural resources conservation. He worked five years as a scientist with Illinois Natural History Survey, and followed that with a seven-year stretch with the Service's Abernathy Fish Technology Center, in Washington State where he directed ecological physiology research on trout and salmon. Ostrand arrived in San Marcos as the Deputy Center Director of the facility in 2011.

"During my 26-year career I have seen a lot of changes in conservation, but no matter what it is called or what method we use, saving species and improving their habitats remain the pinnacle benchmark that defines our success," said Ostrand. "I am proud to be a small part of such a hard-working team at San Marcos that is making strides to save so many species from extinction. I am in awe of my team, peers and leadership that continue to fight this tough battle every day."

"It is great to have Ken Ostrand as the Director of the San Marcos Aquatic Resources Center," said Stewart Jacks, the Service's Assistant Regional Director – Fish and Aquatic Conservation. "He's a very capable scientist and a proven leader. Ken's skills and talents coupled with his commitment to working with partners, and his vision for conservation will be keys to the continued success of the Service."

Ostrand is active in the American Fisheries Society and the Ecological Society of America and has published findings of his research in numerous scientific journals such as American Midland Naturalist and the Texas Journal of Science. Ostrand periodically serves Texas State University as a co-advisor of students seeking advanced degrees in biology or related fields.

The San Marcos Aquatic Resources Center (previously called San Marcos National Fish Hatchery) is one of 70 such facilities found across the United States. San Marcos biologists work with rare and imperiled organisms such as Texas blind salamander, fountain darter, Texas wild-rice and Devils River minnow. The facility was originally established on the grounds of Texas State University in 1897 and opened in its current location in 1974.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov/southwest/