Judy Camuso is stepping down as Maine’s wildlife and inland fisheries commissioner.
That caps off two decades of public service for Camuso, who joined the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in 2007. Her last day as commissioner is April 30.
“Serving the people of Maine and our Governor as Commissioner of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife has been a true honor — an opportunity I will long cherish. I am deeply grateful to Governor Mills, our staff, and our many partners for their support and collaboration,” Camuso said in a statement. “Together, we expanded opportunities for hunters and anglers, conserved tens of thousands of acres for public access and fish and wildlife habitat and strengthened Maine’s outdoor recreational economy.”
Camuso, who was confirmed to the post in 2019, is the first woman to lead Maine’s wildlife department.
Under her leadership, the department saw 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.
“Commissioner Camuso is a consummate outdoorswoman, and a trusted advisor, friend, and a valued partner in my administration,” Gov. Janet Mills said in a statement. “I thank her for her years of dedicated service to Maine people and for her work to protect and strengthen our outdoor heritage — and I look forward to more fishing adventures together in the years ahead.”
Deputy Commissioner Tim Peabody will take the helm until the Legislature confirms Camuso’s successor. Peabody has served as the department’s deputy commissioner for 12 years. Before that he served as a colonel in the Maine Warden Service.
