Quinn opens door to IDNR with Miller

SPRINGFIELD, Ill.–Gov. Quinn opened a new era in Illinois outdoors on Thursday, appointing Marc Miller to head the IDNR.

The feeling was almost giddy outside the governor’s office in the capitol with the announcement and from a multitude of conservation groups.

Miller was senior policy advisor for Quinn, specializing in environmental and conservation issues, after working for Prairie Rivers Network from 1999-2004.

Here’s a sampling of response from the capitol and across the state.

Former IDNR director Brent Manning:

Governor Quinn is batting 1000, Absolutely a great choice, Marc is a sportsman, professionally trained, experienced in Conservation Congress and a very bright young man. I wish him the very best and am willing to help in any manner needed.

From Jack Darin, Director, Sierra Club, Illinois chapter:

By making the IDNR Director his first Agency appointment, in his first week as Governor, Quinn is sending a powerful signal that the mission of the DNR to protect our natural resources is critical to our well-being and our economy.

From Aaron Kuehl, Pheasants Forever/Quail Forever Director of Conservation for Illinois,

I’m pleased to see the natural resource background and credentials of our new director. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever chapters across the state look forward to working with Director Miller and the entire DNR to restore the proud traditions of conservation, hunting, and angling to Illinois.

Eric Freyfogle, a member of Prairie River Network’s board of directors,

Miller is an especially sound choice because he knows the Governor, knows the issues, and has sensible judgment. He’ll work hard to conserve nature, yet ensure that conservation benefits the people of Illinois, today and in the future. He’ll hit the ground running.

From Scott Bryant of the Migratory Waterfowler Hunters, Inc., who was surprised to be invited:

One thing I know is there will be an open door policy, unlike the past six years.

That alone be may the greatest gift Miller can deliver, restoring the dialogue.

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