State Rep. Jessica Wooley has been named the new director of the state Office of Environmental Quality Control.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie appointed Wooley, an attorney known for her environmental advocacy, to the post Thursday. The appointment is subject to state Senate confirmation.

Wooley (D, Kahaluu-Ahuimanu-Kaneohe), chairwoman of the House Agriculture Committee, was first elected in 2008. She defeated former House Majority Leader Pono Chong in a primary in 2012 after she and Chong were placed in the same district when boundaries were redrawn following the census.

Wooley, 45, a progressive, is one of the most consistent voices at the Legislature for expanding opportunities for locally grown food and for labeling genetically modified food.

"I think it’s very consistent with all the policies I’ve been working on while at the Legislature," Wooley said. "Very much about the environment and our economy the two go hand in hand together, and so that will really continue to be my focus."

Wooley said she considers the appointment "an opportunity to have a greater impact."

The office is responsible for implementing the state’s environmental impact statement law. The office does not typically have a high profile, but has been drawn into fights over environmental protection.

Abercrombie withdrew his appointment of Genevieve Salmonson as office director in October after it became apparent she would not be confirmed by the Senate. Salmonson had served as office director under Govs. Ben Cayetano and Linda Lingle but was criticized for her involvement in the Lingle administration’s exemption of $40 million in harbor improvements for the Hawaii Superferry from environmental review.

Gary Hooser, Abercrombie’s previous choice for the office, stepped down as director to run for Kauai County Council in 2012. Hooser, a former Kauai state senator, had clashed with some of the governor’s aides over environmental policy.

"Jessica is knowledgeable and experienced in issues pertaining to the environment, water resources, agriculture and land use," Abercrombie said in a statement. "Her legal and public service background will be a great asset in protecting Hawaii’s fragile environment. Her energy and commitment to the issues involved with the OEQC is a big plus for Hawaii."

House Speaker Joseph Souki (D, Waihee-Waiehu-Wailuku) said Wooley would continue to serve in the House until the confirmation process is complete. The speaker said he has not made a decision on who would replace Wooley as House Agriculture Committee chairwoman if she is confirmed.

Rep. Richard Onishi (D, South Hilo-Keaau-Honuapo) is vice chairman of the committee, but he is a freshman. The House has generally not awarded committee chairmanships to freshmen.

Abercrombie would appoint Wooley’s replacement in the House from a list of three nominees recommended by the Democratic Party of Hawaii.