Russell Fishbeck was named Williamson County senior director of parks and recreation July 22, according to a news release.

Fishbeck is the third senior director of parks, taking over for Randy Bell, who has worked in parks across the state for 36 years, the release said.

“I have always felt that parks are islands in the sea of development. It has been my privilege to enhance our quality of life by providing these islands of green open spaces for people to relax and enjoy nature,” Bell said in the release. “I know our Williamson County parks will be in good hands with my successor."

Fishbeck has also spent more than 30 years working in the state park system, the release said. He has served in many capacities with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, including as the Region 2 state parks director in Rockport where he oversaw 13 state parks and historic sites in South Texas, it said.

In September 2013, Fishbeck moved to Austin where he served as the state parks deputy director, supporting colleagues in the oversight and management of the entire state park system, the release said.

“After working in parks all across the state, I am very excited to begin this chapter in Williamson County," Fishbeck said in the release. "Their parks, trails and recreational amenities are exceptional. My goal is to keep adding to the quality of life they provide for residents and guests alike."