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Community pushes for dark sky certification to combat light pollution

September 10, 2024 | Pitkin County, Colorado


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Community pushes for dark sky certification to combat light pollution
In a recent government meeting, significant progress was reported regarding wildfire resilience and lighting code amendments aimed at reducing light pollution in the region. A minimum state code for wildfire management was established, with plans to present it at the upcoming Fire Adapted Colorado (FACCO) conference and the American Planning Association (APA) conference in Loveland.

The meeting also featured discussions led by Larissa Lavonne, the Community Development Involvement Services Manager, who introduced a proposed amendment to the lighting code. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address light pollution, which has been increasingly affecting the area's natural night sky. Local advocates, including Martha Ferguson, highlighted the importance of becoming a certified Dark Sky community, emphasizing the ecological and aesthetic benefits of reducing artificial light.

Ferguson shared insights from her work with the Snowmass Capital Creek Caucus, detailing efforts to measure light pollution using a specialized device. She reported that recent readings indicated a concerning increase in light pollution, prompting community engagement to encourage better lighting practices. The initiative aims to educate residents on selecting appropriate LED lighting that minimizes environmental impact, advocating for bulbs with a color temperature of 3,000 Kelvin or lower.

The meeting underscored a growing awareness of the need for sustainable lighting solutions that not only enhance community safety but also preserve the region's natural beauty and ecological balance. As the community moves forward with these initiatives, the potential for eco-tourism centered around stargazing is also being explored, presenting an opportunity for economic growth while fostering environmental stewardship.

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