Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger announced the appointment of DonaldKoch as director of the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) on April 16, 2008.
"California's diverse wildlife is among our most treasured natural resources," Governor Schwarzenegger said. "I am confident Donald will continue to protect these cherished resources that make our state so unique."
Before retiring in December 2007, Koch worked for DFG for 30 years. Most recently, he was advisor to the directorate, representing DFG in Klamath River negotiations. Previously, he served the department as Northern California-North Coast regional manager from 1998 to 2007 where he managed law enforcement and fish, wildlife and habitat conservation.
"It is a great honor to serve in this important role in Governor Schwarzenegger's Administration," said Koch. "I look forward to using my background to protect California's vast fish and wildlife population."
Koch, 55, of Redding, earned a Master of Science degree in biological sciences from California State University, Sacramento and a Bachelor of Science degree in zoology from the University of California, Davis.
