Quinn names new state conservation director

SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is introducing a new state conservation director but is leaving open the possibility that some of his predecessor's cabinet officers will stay.

Quinn named Marc Miller Thursday to be director of the Department of Natural Resources. The 39-year-old Springfield resident was senior policy adviser to Quinn when he was lieutenant governor.

But Quinn didn't rule out the chance that some agency directors who served under disgraced former Gov. Rod Blagojevich will keep their jobs. He says if they're "doing a good job and it's best for the people," they'll stay.

Miller replaced former state Rep. Kurt Granberg. Blagojevich appointed Granberg Jan. 16 even though he had already been impeached. Quinn said he wanted a professional in the field to lead the agency.