The Yukon Conservation Society (YCS) will have a new executive director as of Canada Day.

Christina Macdonald, the society's former wildlife co-ordinator, will take over the role from Karen Baltgailis, who will remain with the society for July to work on the Peel watershed preservation campaign.

Macdonald, who has lived in the Yukon since 2009, worked as the wildlife co-ordinator for YCS for the past three years.

Speaking this morning, Macdonald said working as the wildlife co-ordinator gave her the opportunity to dig into some important environmental issues.

The transition to executive director offers the chance to continue doing the work she loves but with an expanded scope.

Now, rather than limiting her focus to wildlife, she can get her hands into broader issues.

"I've had a lot of those ‘wow' moments ... when it comes to the natural environment,” Macdonald said, remembering walking along the Yukon River her first winter and being awestruck by the beauty of the trees covered in ice crystals.

"All those interactions with nature add up, and I've really come to love this place,” she said.

Under her leadership, the Peel will continue to be a primary focus, Macdonald said, as will energy.

"I think Karen has done a wonderful job ... she's really positioned the YCS very strongly in terms of the campaigns she has spearheaded and that I will be taking over,” Macdonald said.

"We're on a good strong track here.”

Mary Whitley, the president of the society's board of directors, noted that Macdonald is a wonderful choice for the position. 

"As wildlife co-ordinator, she built strong relationships with YCS's staff, board and members, and partner organizations on advocacy and educational projects,” Whitley said in a release this week.

"She has skills and experience that will be real assets in her position as executive director.

"The YCS board is looking forward to continuing to work with Christina on effective campaigns to encourage the protection of Yukon ecosystems.”

Baltgailis added her vote of confidence, noting "Macdonald brings a real talent for project management and working with people to achieve common goals.

"Christina has a deep understanding of the values that underpin our Yukon way of life,” said Baltgailis.

"I know that as executive director, she will work hard to ensure the land, water and wildlife that we all depend on for food, health, livelihoods and recreation are maintained,” she said.

As she transitions into her new role, Macdonald said she hopes to continue to strengthen the relationships built by Baltgailis, expand the society's membership and promote environmental protection both within and outside the Yukon.