Prime Minister Stephen Harper named prominent rancher Judith Guichon as the new lieutenant-governor of British Columbia on Monday morning.

Guichon is the owner and operator of Gerard Guichon Ranch Limited in the Nicola Valley where she resides with two of her four children. She recently served a two-year term as president of the British Columbia Cattlemen’s Association, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister's Office

"Mrs. Guichon has dedicated herself to her community, province and country," Harper said in the statement.

"She is a leader in keeping British Columbia’s agriculture and cattle industries environmentally sound and she has worked hard to promote and protect the ranchers of British Columbia."

B.C. Premier Christy Clark welcomed the appointment in a statement.

"She has a deep appreciation for the history and traditions of British Columbia and has spent a lifetime ensuring that we all stay connected to our roots — particularly through her work with the B.C. Cattlemen's Association," said Clark.

"Those deep, abiding roots are what have driven Judith to get involved in her community, industry and province. She never has just stood by, but always sought ways to bring her perspective forward in a positive fashion and make our province better."

Lieutenant-governors are appointed by the Governor General on the recommendation of the prime minister for five-year terms.

Guichon replaces outgoing lieutenant-governor Steven Point, who was appointed in 2007. Point was thanked by both Harper and Clark for his service.

"His compassion, selflessness, intelligence and wit were always on full display for all British Columbians to witness. He has served with distinction, and for that we owe a great debt of thanks," said Clark.