Judy Camuso, who announced in early April that she would be stepping down as commissioner of Maine’s inland fisheries and wildlife department, has been named president of the Maine Audubon organization.
Camuso announced on April 7 that her last day as commissioner of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife would be April 30, capping 20 years of her career spent at the department. She served as commissioner for seven of those years.
Camuso will be the first woman to take the helm of the organization, as current executive director Andy Beahm retires on April 30 from the role he has held since 2017.
“Maine Audubon has always possessed a special place in my heart since I began my career there,” Camuso said in a Monday announcement. “I’m looking forward to leading Maine Audubon to new levels as the premier conservation organization in the state, and beyond. I truly believe people protect what they love, and I want more people to love the wildlife and natural resources of the state.”
Camuso, who will become the first woman to lead Maine Audubon since its inception in 1843, was also the first woman to lead Maine’s wildlife department.
While with the wildlife and fisheries department, Camuso oversaw a 9% increase in fishing licenses and 10% increase in hunting licenses. The department conserved 30,000 acres for recreation and habit, including 8,000 for deer.
Additionally, the department under Camuso added 20 new boating access sites, increased deer and moose permits, and added youth hunting days.
Camuso started her career in wildlife at Maine Audubon nearly 30 years ago, first as a seasonal biologist before serving as the staff naturalist and Gilsland Farm center director for 11 years.
Now, she will take the helm of the organization that kicked off her years of dedication to wildlife and conservation.
“We are thrilled to welcome Judy as our new president,” says Michael Catania, chair of Maine Audubon’s Board of Trustees. “Her deep commitment to conservation and proven leadership make her the right person to guide Maine Audubon forward into our next era. There is no denying that it is a critical time for Maine’s environmental efforts and Judy brings the vision and experience we need to advance our mission and further strengthen our impact across the state.”
Outgoing president Beahm said he is “beyond thrilled” that Caruso will be taking the helm of the historic conservation organization.
“Over the last decade, we have greatly expanded the reach and relevance of our education, conservation, advocacy and properties work. I’m beyond thrilled that Judy will succeed me and am supremely confident that she can take Maine Audubon to even higher levels of impact.”
BDN writer Christopher Burns contributed to this report.
