JUNEAU -- Gov. Sean Parnell is appointing adviser Cora Campbell to head the state Fish and Game Department.

Campbell has been acting commissioner since Dec. 1, when Denby Lloyd retired.

She was one of two applicants submitted for consideration by the Joint Board of Fisheries and Game and forwarded to Parnell for consideration on Tuesday. The other was Ron Somerville, a former Board of Game chairman.

Parnell has taken heat for appointing Campbell to the acting post. She is 31, but her resume includes work as fisheries adviser for former Gov. Sarah Palin, in commercial fishing and as an executive director of a regional fishing association.

On Wednesday, Parnell praised Campbell's fisheries experience and understanding of wildlife management issues.

Her appointment still must be confirmed by the Legislature.