The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) welcomes Chris Crookshanks as the Fisheries Division Administrator. Chris brings more than 25 years of professional experience to his new position, which oversees the direction, health, and vitality of Nevada's fish in its network of streams, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
“As a native Nevadan and lifelong fisherman, I understand my role in this position represents the bigger picture,” Crookshanks said. “I’m confident that my experience as a steward for Nevada’s fish and aquatic life makes me a great fit.”
Chris was born and raised in Carson City and graduated from Carson High School. He received a Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of Nevada, Reno in 1995. He began his career with NDOW as a seasonal (biologist assistant) stationed in Winnemucca and worked on the Western Region stream survey crew. Chris secured his first full-time position at Lake Mead Hatchery in 1996, raising and stocking trout throughout the Southern Region.
In May 1998, Chris moved to Ely as the Fisheries biologist for White Pine County and married his beautiful bride, Chelise, one week later. He and Chelise set roots in White Pine County where they built a home; welcomed a son and daughter, Cade and Chloe; and spent most of their time chasing elk in the Schell Creek Range or trout fishing at Comins Lake. After 14 years in Ely, Chris transferred to the Truckee/Tahoe/Washoe County biologist position in 2012. In 2014, he moved to NDOW headquarters when he promoted to the staff specialist position serving as the state lead for native aquatic species.
“Chris’ experience working with Nevada’s fish populations bring an invaluable resource to the head of the Fisheries Division,” said Nevada Department of Wildlife Director Tony Wasley. “We couldn’t have picked a more capable person for the position, and I look forward to the direction Chris will take Nevada’s fish.”
Chris and his family live in Carson City in the house he was raised in. They also share a home with loveable Labrador named Adi. In their spare time, the Crookshanks family enjoys all things in the outdoors including camping, backpacking, and fly fishing.