The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is pleased to announce that Kraig Ruebush has been selected as the new manager of Willow Beach National Fish Hatchery, located in Willow Beach, Arizona.

Ruebush brings nearly two decades of experience and knowledge in fish culture, conservation and hatchery operations.

He is a native of Macomb, Illinois, where came of age on a hog farm, often a shadow to his dad who introduced him to the outdoors and fishing. After high school graduation, Ruebush signed on with the U.S. Army. As a soldier, he learned to operate heavy machinery, a skill he carried into civilian life excavating roads and ponds, waterlines and golf courses.

His love of the outdoors led to a career shift: a bachelor of science in Fisheries from the University of Arkansas – Pine Bluff, and eventual work as a fish biologist.

“Kraig brings an impressive suite of experience to Willow Beach, and I’m pleased to have him on board,” said Stewart Jacks, Assistant Regional Director – Fish and Aquatic Conservation. “He’s worked with a multitude of coldwater and warmwater species over the last two decades—experience right in line with our endeavors at his new station.”

“I feel fortunate to have been able to travel all over the country working with so many interesting people thoughout my varied career,” said Ruebush, “My family and I look forward to our new chapter in life at Willow Beach.”

Willow Beach National Fish Hatchery is one of 70 such facilities found across the United States. Ruebush and his co-workers raise rainbow trout and endangered razorback sucker, a rare fish species found only in the Colorado River and its large tributaries. The hatchery is open to the public and visitors are encouraged to stop by.

The mission of the Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.

For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov/southwest/

Contacts: Kraig Ruebush (928) 767-3456 Kraig_Ruebush@fws.gov
Craig Springer (505) 248-6867 Craig_Springer@fws.gov