AMES, Iowa -- Rich Clayton is the new Iowa State University (ISU) Extension aquaculture specialist. His appointment is split equally between ISU Extension and ISU Research Farms (Horticulture Station).

Clayton has a Bachelor of Science degree in fisheries and wildlife biology from ISU. He has been researching aquaculture at ISU for 13 years and spent seven of them focusing on fish.

"I enjoy getting my hands wet," said Clayton.

Clayton is responsible for overseeing the aquatic research facility at the ISU Horticulture Station and served as the link between research conducted in aquaculture and the citizens of Iowa.

He can be reached in his office at (515) 294-8616, on his cell phone at (515) 450-3760 or by e-mail at rclayton@iastate.edu. Because of his split appointment, Clayton is available to discuss aquaculture and fisheries on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

"He has excellent qualifications for this position," said Joe Morris, associate professor in natural resource ecology and management.  "He has good practical experience in aquaculture and is an excellent communicator to the public."

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