The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee convened on January 23, 2025, to discuss several key issues, prominently featuring a resolution to declare April 1 through April 28, 2025, as North Dakota Dark Sky Week. This initiative aims to raise awareness about light pollution and its detrimental effects on both the environment and human health.

Senator Tim Mathern, the prime sponsor of Senate Concurrent Resolution 4004, emphasized the importance of this resolution, which coincides with International Dark Sky Week. He outlined three main objectives: educating residents about the dangers of light pollution, promoting energy conservation, and encouraging local governments to adopt measures that reduce light pollution and protect wildlife, particularly migratory birds.

Support for the resolution was bolstered by testimony from Patrick Summer, a representative of Dark Sky International. He highlighted the global significance of Dark Sky Week, noting that artificial light at night poses numerous risks, including health issues such as sleep disorders, cancers, and mental health problems. Summer also pointed out the impact of light pollution on migratory birds, which rely on natural night skies for navigation. He cited alarming statistics, estimating that light pollution contributes to the deaths of hundreds of millions of birds in North America during migration seasons.

The committee discussed the broader implications of the resolution, including its potential to enhance North Dakota's tourism through astrotourism, leveraging the state's natural dark skies. The conversation underscored the need for ongoing education and local action to mitigate light pollution year-round, not just during the designated week.

In conclusion, the committee expressed support for the resolution, recognizing its significance in fostering environmental awareness and promoting the preservation of North Dakota's natural resources. The next steps involve further discussions and potential legislative actions to address light pollution and its effects on both wildlife and human health.