Sandoval appoints interim wildlife director

CARSON CITY - Gov. Brian Sandoval has named in an interim director of the Nevada Department of Wildlife to replace Ken Mayer.

Mayer was asked to resign by the governor.

Sandoval on Tuesday appointed George Tsukamoto to head the agency until a permanent replacement is found.

Tsukamoto is a wildlife biologist who spent 33 years at the agency, and 13 years as chief of the game division. He also spent 10 years with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Sandoval said Tsukamoto will serve as an independent contractor while temporarily heading the agency. He'll also assist in conducting a nationwide search for a permanent director.