MEDFORD (AP) - Marla Rae, a Salem legal consultant with close ties to Gov. Ted Kulongoski, will lead the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission.

Rae, 50, was announced Tuesday as the next chairwoman of the seven-member commission that sets the state's fish and wildlife policies while overseeing the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

She replaces John Esler of Portland, who lost his seat two weeks ago during a shake-up in which Kulongoski withdrew Esler's re-appointment while nominating three new commissioners.

Rae's ties to Kulongoski, including a stint as his executive assistant when the governor was attorney general, helped play a role in her appointment, a governor's aide said.

"He knows her, knows her skills and how she'll perform," said Jim Myron, Kulongoski's natural-resource policy adviser.

"I think Marla will help keep the commission on a steady, even keel," Myron said. "I don't see any major shifts in direction."

A fifth generation Oregonian, Rae said she brings "an Oregon perspective and common sense" to the task of building public trust and confidence in the ODFW.

Rae's appointment generated praise from both sides of the political spectrum.

State Sen. Jason Atkinson, R-Jacksonville, called Rae "a good appointment" who listens well to the public and does not weigh decisions based on personal agendas.

Sally Mackler, wildlife chairwoman of the Oregon Sierra Club, called Rae "accessible and communicative."

Rae's appointment carries no need for legislative approval.