In his first week of office, Illinois’ new governor took two major steps that will have a significant impact on the future of Illinois’ natural areas and wildlife. 

On Feb. 5, Gov. Pat Quinn appointed Marc Miller, a well-regarded natural resources professional, as the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) director. Miller had been senior policy adviser and liaison to the Illinois River Coordinating Council for the Office of Lieutenant Governor. An avid outdoorsman who has dedicated his career to protecting Illinois’ natural heritage for future generations, Miller replaced Kurt Granberg, a former state representative appointed by former governor Rod Blagojevich. 

A series of budget cuts, layoffs, political hiring and firing and low staff morale had compromised the IDNR’s ability to do its job in recent years, and environmental groups greeted the news of Miller’s appointment with enthusiasm.

“This is a very strong first step to rebuilding Illinois’ ability to protect its wildlife, water, and special places and to offer high-quality outdoor recreation experiences to Illinois residents and visitors,” said Jack Darin, executive director of the Sierra Club, Illinois Chapter. 

Quinn’s appointment of Miller followed another important action he took on Feb. 4 when he signed SB 1132, legislation that restores $9 million to federally funded state programs for conservation and wildlife. The funds were swept last year to pay for other state programs, and federal authorities had threatened to slap Illinois with a $17 million penalty if they weren’t restored.

Quinn’s rise to the office of governor has given the Illinois environmental community reason for hope after years of struggling to protect the state’s natural resources. He has talked about the need for sustainability to be the fundamental principle of a major capital spending program and for smart, clean energy to be a priority and said he will reopen the seven state parks closed by Blagojevich last fall.