NIGHT SKY AND DARK ENVIRONMENTS: BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR ARTIFICIAL LIGHT AT NIGHT ON BLM-MANAGED LANDS TECHNICAL NOTE 457 46 5.1.5 Consider Nearby Astronomical Observatories before Installing Lighting Systems Consider nearby astronomical observatories before installing outdoor lighting systems on BLM facilities or BLM-permitted projects. Observatories and the research conducted at them are very sensitive to light pollution, especially skyglow. This practice fosters observatory activities and recognizes human value for stargazing and astrotourism. 5.1.6 Educate Stakeholders Concerning Night Sky and Darkness Resources Education increases awareness about the value of darkness, sources of light pollution, and steps that can be taken to reduce light pollution. Development of information programs about night skies/darkness resources may help curtail overall contributions to light pollution, benefiting wildlife and humans. Information programs can also provide valuable science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education opportunities. The International Dark-Sky Association founded the International Dark Sky Places Program in 2001 to encourage communities, parks, and protected areas around the world to preserve and protect dark sites through responsible lighting policies and education. There are five different types of designations through the program: International Dark Sky Community, International Dark Sky Park, International Dark Sky Reserve, International Dark Sky Sanctuary, and Urban Night Sky Place. Designation is based on a rigorous application process that requires applicants to demonstrate robust community support for dark sky protection. International Dark Sky Places designations do not have legal or regulatory authority and do not impose any legal authority over agency plans or decision processes. These designations demonstrate a commitment to preserve and protect night skies by encouraging responsible lighting policies and public education. As BLM offices work on International Dark Sky Places certification proposals with their partners, it is recommended that notice is made to BLM Headquarters. Pioneer work on this topic includes the BLM-managed Massacre Rim Wilderness Study Area that is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary (IDA 2019a) and Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument (jointly managed by the BLM and the National Park Service) that is recognized as the Parashant International Night Sky Province-Window to the Cosmos (IDA 2014; NPS 2016b). Light pollution can negatively affect research activities at astronomical observatories. The Massacre Rim Wilderness Study Area in Nevada is designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark-Sky Association. Kurt Kuznicki, Friends of Nevada Wilderness Tyler Nordgren The International Dark-Sky Association has designated the Grand CanyonParashant National Monument as the Parashant International Night Sky Province-Window to the Cosmos.
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