NIGHT SKY AND DARK ENVIRONMENTS: BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES FOR ARTIFICIAL LIGHT AT NIGHT ON BLM-MANAGED LANDS TECHNICAL NOTE 457 47 5.1.7 Keep Informed about Lighting Best Practices Lighting best practices are expected to evolve as lighting technology and the effects of artificial light at night are better understood. Keeping up with developments can result in better decision making when it comes to choosing new lighting systems or retrofit strategies. Notes: A technical memorandum by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), titled “Description, Measurement, and Estimation of Sky Glow,” describes the causes, characteristics, and potential impacts of human-caused skyglow and provides current methods for quantification and control (IES 2021). The IES and IDA websites and publications and lighting technology conferences are useful sources for learning about new technology and practices. 5.1.8 Identify Light-Sensitive Receptors Maintain awareness of groups of people, plant and animal species, activities, and cultural and historic sites that are sensitive to light and likely to be affected by it as part of BLM facilities or BLMpermitted projects or activities. These sensitive receptors can help the BLM recognize appropriate or improved project design and land management planning practices. Notes: For some plant and animal species occurring on or near BLM-managed lands, specific information about light sensitivity may be lacking. However, this is a robust and active area of research, and new information is routinely available. 5.1.9 Conduct a Baseline Study of Existing Light Pollution and Night Sky Conditions An initial step for any BLM-managed area where the naturally dark environment is important is to conduct a baseline study of existing light pollution and night sky conditions prior to any proposed development. Such a study provides a sound scientific basis for resource quality and impact assessment needed for monitoring. The baseline study typically assesses skyglow; light trespass from directly visible light sources; and instances of glare, light clutter, and overillumination. To the extent possible, such studies also identify sources of light pollution and determine their location (whether within or outside the boundaries of BLM-managed lands). Notes: It may be necessary to consult or collaborate with third parties to design and conduct the baseline study. A method for assessing light pollution using commercially available digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras and software is discussed by Jechow et al. (2019). The Utah Community Development Office’s Dark Sky Assessment Guide, while intended primarily for communities, is a useful resource for designing and administering a baseline study of night sky pollution and night sky conditions (Utah Community Development Office 2019). The California leaf-nosed bat is listed as a sensitive species by the BLM.
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