Media Campaign: Dark Skies by Strategies 360

Dark Skies MEDIA CAMPAIGN

PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION

ENTRANTS Todd Dvorak

STRATEGIES 360

We are Change Makers

SHAPING BUSINESS, POLITICS, AND CULTURE IN THE SPIRIT OF THE WEST.

Project Summary THE CHALLENGE

The idea of promoting and generating publicity for the dark skies designation emerged from the recognition of the unique aspect of the story and the potential of telling an interesting an interesting Idaho story to a broader audience. The dark sky designation, both the community designation for the City of Ketchum and the bigger, reserve concept, were the culmination of several forces and factors: protecting the environment, economic development potential and local government setting and achieving policy goals. The challenge was generating media interest in a story that had been told elsewhere but also lacked the glitz, a powerful personality or quantiﬁable impact.

THE STRATEGY

The focus was selling the community and reserve stories to local and national media and in the process, generating positive press and attention for Ketchum as well as the partners in the reserve, which included local governments and environmental nonproﬁts. While it seemed likely local media would be interested in the community story, getting national buy-in seemed perhaps improbable. The thought was to tease the reserve story at the same time, recognizing the unique, ﬁrst-in-the-nation aspect of the reserve. This was the angle especially for bigger media, including the AP and NPR, hoping the AP picking up and moving national would provoke other major dailies to cover the story at a later date. • Pitch the community story to local media, including the Associated Press. • Pitch the community story to major national newspapers, but also tease the bigger reserve story. • Make available to media a variety of sources who were trained-up and could talk on the varied aspects of the dark skies and the work involved in earning designations • Pitch to local and national outlets the reserve story, recognizing that the biggest national interest would come with this development. • The goal of the reserve pitch was the unique nature of the reserve, its size and economic/ tourism potential.

THE SUCCESS

Both stories earned signiﬁcant local, state and national news coverage. In large part, as anticipated, this was driven by the interest from the AP and moving national stories that appeared on websites and print across the U.S. The coverage ultimately drove unique coverage from the Washington Post, Weather Channel, Vice, and more. Meltwater Analytics estimates 1,648 total online media mentions of Dark Skies, valued at more than 11 million dollars. We include here a selectin of those clips.

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CONTENTS 4 8 9 10 39 40

Press Releases Talking Points Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Statement Online News Clips AP Top Stories 2017 TVEyes Report

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Press Release For immediate release Oct. 31, 2017

Contact: Lisa Enourato lenourato@ketchumidaho.org

Ketchum Earns “Dark Sky Community” Designation KETCHUM, IDAHO – The City of Ketchum has officially been designated as an “International Dark Sky Community” by the international organization dedicated to reducing light pollution and preserving night skies. The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced its decision to certify Ketchum Tuesday, capping several years of efforts by city leaders, dark-sky advocates, business leaders and citizens to reduce the impact urban light can have on Ketchum’s night sky. Ketchum is the first Idaho city to earn the designation and joins the Craters of the Moon as the only Idaho places recognized by IDA for its amazing window to the universe. “This is terrific news for the city, its residents and visitors who enjoy and value the unique view we have to the stars, planets and deep space,” said Mayor Nina Jonas. “This is also a testament to the work of so many who have devoted time and energy to reducing light pollution across our city and neighborhoods so that we can enjoy the truly terrific views we have of the night sky.” Research shows that 80 percent of people in North America live in places where urban light p ollution dilutes the night sky. To achieve dark sky community status, the city council adopted ordinances to manage holiday lighting or require that street and building lighting be shielded to direct light to the ground. For the city to maintain its status it must continue to protect the night sky through educational and awareness materials, dark sky events and other exhibits and programs. A nonprofit based on Tucson, Arizona, IDA advocates globally to protect the nighttime environment through education and working with policy makers about night sky conservation and promoting responsible outdoor lighting. The group established the International Dark Sky Places Program in 2001 to recognize sites where local leaders practice outstanding stewardship of the night sky. Ketchum is now one of 11 International Dark Sky Communities in the United States. In its review, IDA considered whether the city’s lighting ordinances met IDA criteria, the level of public education and outreach on the importance of dark skies and ability to demonstrate success in controlling light pollution. “We are so pleased with today’s designation of Ketchum as Idaho’s first Dark Sky Community,” said IDA Executive Director J. Scott Feierabend. “Not only is Ketchum’s achievement a first for the Gem State, but it represents important first steps toward the active conservation of dark skies over one of the last remaining large regions of a natural nighttime darkness in the continental United States.”

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Press Release The city is also included in the proposal to establish the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, which is still under consideration by IDA. The reserve would encompass more than 1,400 square miles, include Ketchum, Sun Valley and Stanley and be the first of its kind in the United States. Dr. Stephen Pauley, who has advocated and encouraged local leaders to adopt ordinances limiting light pollution, said Ketchum and its residents should be proud of the designation. “The city deserves to be designated a dark sky community. Citizens and city leaders, planners and business owners all had a hand in achieving this goal and preserving our dark skies,” said Dr. Pauley. “We should all feel good about this and take a moment to think about the benefit this leaves for generations to follow.” _________ Media inquiries for the International Dark Sky Association should be made to Dr. John Barentine at john@darksky.org or at (520) 347-6363. For more information about IDA, visit its website at: http://www.darksky.org

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Press Release For immediate release Dec. 18, 2017

Contact: Lisa Enourato lenourato@ketchumidaho.org Betsy Mizel bmizel@idahoconservation.org

Central Idaho Earns Designation as the Nation’s First Dark Sky Reserve KETCHUM, IDAHO – An organization dedicated to protecting and preserving dark skies across the globe has designated an area spanning more than 1,400 square miles in central Idaho as the nation’s first dark sky reserve. The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced on Dec. 18 formal approval of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, the first of its kind in the United States and one of just 12 such reserves worldwide. The reserve stretches from Ketchum/Sun Valley to Stanley, includes area in Blaine, Boise, Custer and Elmore counties and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The total area of the reserve is 1,416 square miles, making it the third largest in the world. “The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve was created not just for locals, but for all Idahoans and visitors from across the world who can come here and experience the primeval wonder of the starry night sky,” said Steve Botti, the mayor of Stanley and longtime advocate of the reserve. The decision by IDA culminates nearly two decades of work and policy decisions by local leaders, residents and business leaders to manage and reduce the impact light pollution can have on the region’s night skies and nocturnal environment. Across the country, more than 80 percent of the population resides in cities and metropolitan areas where urban light pollution dilutes and distorts views of the stars and planets. Research shows the Milky Way is hidden from view of more than one-third of the world’s population and light pollution continues to grow and intensify around the world. Supporters of the reserve say the vast area between Stanley and Ketchum will ideally help combat the use of artificial light that adversely affects the environment and can have negative and deadly effects on a variety of creatures, including amphibians, birds, mammals, insects and plants. The IDA’s reserve designation requires public and private lands to possess an exceptional or distinguished quality of night sky, view of the stars and nocturnal environment. Reserves can only be formed through partnerships of multiple land managers who have recognized the value of quality nighttime environment through regulation and long-term planning.

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Press Release

“Today’s creation of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is a milestone in the history of IDA’s International Dark Sky Places Program,” said IDA Executive Director J. Scott Feierabend. “That such truly dark nighttime environments still exist in the United States is remarkable, but even more impressive is the effort undertaken to protect them in this case. We congratulate everyone involved in this concerted and monumental achievement.” The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve represents the work and commitment by the cities of Ketchum, Sun Valley and Stanley, along with Blaine County, the Idaho Conservation League, Sawtooth Society, businesses, private land owners and public land managers to protect and promote the region’s dark skies and remarkable stargazing opportunities.

“This is the culmination of a lot of work, important policy decisions and commitment by so many to manage our light pollution,” said Nina Jonas, mayor of Ketchum, which earned “Dark Sky Community” designation earlier this year. “We’re pleased what this says about the commitment our communities have shown to protecting our environment and spectacular window to the universe.” The IDA also granted the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve “Gold Tier” status, the highest level of a semi-objective system used by IDA to rank the quality of the night sky. Under IDA guidelines, Gold-tier status is generally reserved for the darkest skies, with only a small amount of light pollution tolerated. “This region deserves to be designated a dark sky reserve. Citizens and city leaders, planners and business owners all had a hand in achieving this goal and preserving our quality view of the world above,” said Dr. Stephen Pauley, a Ketchum resident and longtime advocate for dark skies. “We should all feel good about this and take a moment to think about the benefit this leaves for generations to follow.” _______ Media inquiries for the International Dark Sky Association should be made to Dr. John Barentine at john@darksky.org or at (520) 347-6363. For more information about IDA, visit its website at: http://www.darksky.org

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Talking Points

Talking Points – Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve

Basic Facts of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve (CIDSR): • • • • •

The reserve was created by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), based in Arizona. Total area equals 1,416 square miles. The area stretches from Ketchum to Stanley, includes land in four counties – Blaine, Boise, Custer and Elmore – as well as the entire Sawtooth National Recreation Area. CIDSR is the first dark sky reserve in the United States and the 12 th across the globe. CIDSR is the third biggest reserve designated by the International Dark-Sky Association. It trails Mont-Megantic (Quebec) at 2,123 square miles; and Aoraki Mackenzie, New Zealand, at 1,686 square miles. IDA also awarded CIDSR “Gold-tier” status. This is granted to parks and reserves that generally have the darkest skies, though some light pollution is tolerable under IDA guidelines.

The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is important because: • • •

•

• • •

People want – or will want – to visit places not impacted by urban light pollution, to visit places they can see the stars, Milky Way, planets clearly and without the distortion caused by light. The darkest core areas of the CIDSR are easily accessible to visitors and stargazers because state highway 75 bisects the reserve through the Wood River and Sawtooth valleys. The world isn’t getting darker. It’s also important to preserve and protect our night skies. Science continues to show that the lighting of our globe and skies continues to expand and grow, and that the brightness of that light continues to increase and intensify. See this Science Advances link for more information about a Nov. 2017 study: http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/3/11/e1701528 The darkness of the nigh sky is incredibly important to nocturnal ecology, the plants and animals that thrive in the darkness. Scientific evidence suggests that artificial light at night has negative and deadly effects on many creatures including amphibians, birds, mammals, insects and plants. The designation honors the stars, planets, Milky Way and all the other astronomical phenomenon of the universe The CIDSR could become a home for serious study and destination for hobbyist astronomers alike. There is potential economic value in the designation. A white paper drafted by two economists at Missouri State University, looking at the potential value of astro-tourism on the Colorado Plateau, estimated a potential economic value of $2.45 billion over a ten-year period. (While it’s probably not a fair comparing

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Talking Points •

directly the Colorado Plateau to CIDSR, it’s accurate to say there is some economic potential in tourism in this region.) A separate 2013 study, cited by IDA, of a dark sky park in Scotland, conducted before and after the park’s certification found a return on investment of 90 percent in terms of money invested in developing infrastructure and stargazing activities relative to income attributed to tourists specifically visiting the park.

How did we get here: • • • •

•

This is the culmination of a process that began several years ago when cities like Ketchum, Hailey, Sun Valley, Stanley and the counties adopted ordinances intended to limit and manage light pollution Ordinances included limitations on the type and length of use for holiday lighting; or requiring urban lighting fixtures that diverted light down rather than up. Separately, Ketchum applied and earned “Dark Sky Community” status in October. Ketchum is one of 11 Dark Sky Communities across the country. Earlier this year, Craters of the Moon was designated a Dark Sky Park by IDA. The work to preserve the designation and dark skies must continue. For Ketchum and CIDSR to keep its status, efforts must continue to protect the night sky through educational and awareness materials, dark sky events and other exhibits and programs. The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve represents the work and commitment by local communities, the Idaho Conservation League, Sawtooth Society, businesses, private land owners and public land managers to protect and promote the region’s remarkable dark skies and the value in the opportunity to stargaze in such a pristine nighttime environment.

About IDA: • • • • •

It’s a nonprofit founded in 1988 and based on Tucson, Arizona. www.darksky.org IDA advocates globally to protect the nighttime environment through education and working with policy makers about night sky conservation and promoting responsible outdoor lighting. The group established the International Dark Sky Places Program in 2001 to recognize sites where local leaders practice outstanding stewardship of the night sky. According to IDA, light pollution is the inappropriate use of artificial light at night and an environmental pollutant that harms our planet and robs us of the opportunity to experience the wonder of a natural night sky. IDA works with the public, city planners, legislators, lighting manufacturers, parks, and protected areas to provide and implement smart lighting choices.

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Mayor’s Statement

Years of Work, Commitment Culminate in Dark Sky Designation

Ketchum has earned a rare and unique distinction and I couldn’t be more proud of all who helped make it happen. This week, we had the pleasure to announce that our city has been designated a “Dark Sky Community” by an international organization committed to protecting nighttime skies. Ketchum is the first city in Idaho to achieve this status and just the 11 th nationwide. The only other place in Idaho with night skies as clear and amazing as our is Craters of the Moon National Monument, which has been recognized as a “Dark Sky Park” by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA). While it’s difficult to predict what kind of impact this will have on our community, appeal as an astro-tourism destination and local economy, to me, one thing is certain: this distinction would not be possible without the help of so many. One of my goals as mayor has been to find ways to improve the quality of life we already enjoy here. My hope is that the quality of your next stargazing adventure affirms how lucky we are here in Ketchum Thanks goes to Dr. Stephen Pauley and the many supportive and enthusiastic members of the community, who for more than two decades has reminded us all about the wonders of the cosmos. Thanks also to partners like the cities of Stanley and Sun Valley, Blaine County, the Forest Service, the Idaho Conservation League and the Sawtooth Society. I also want to champion our own city leaders, who years ago adopted an ordinance to require shielding of outdoor lighting fixtures and minimize light output. Kudos as well to all the residents and business leaders who were willing to adapt and ultimately embrace efforts to reduce light pollution. These steps have made a difference, and as a result given all of us a better view of the constellations, planets and Milk Way that so brilliantly adorn our night skies. The next step? Well, stay tuned as IDA determines whether to include our city in the bigger Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, which would be the first of its kind in the nation. . THE VELTEX BUILDING, 420 WEST MAIN STREET, SUITE 205 | BOISE, IDAHO 83702

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News Clips Idaho hopes to bring stargazers to ﬁrst US dark sky reserve

This June 4, 2016 photo provided by Nils Ribi Photography shows the Milky Way in the night sky at the foot of the Boulder Mountains in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Idaho. Tourists heading to central Idaho will be in the dark if local officials get their way. The nation's first International Dark Sky Reserve will fill a chunk of the sparsely populated region containing night skies so pristine that interstellar dust clouds are visible in the Milky Way. (Nils Ribi Photography via AP) –The Associated Press

By KEITH RIDLER AP, September 15, 2017

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Tourists heading to central Idaho will be in the dark if local officials get their way. The first International Dark Sky Reserve in the United States would fill a chunk of the state’s sparsely

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News Clips populated region that contains night skies so pristine that interstellar dust clouds are visible in the Milky Way. “We know the night sky has inspired people for many thousands of years,” said John Barentine, program manager at the Tucson, Arizona-based International Dark-Sky Association. “When they are in a space where they can see it, it’s often a very profound experience.” Supporters say excess artificial light causes sleeping problems for people and disrupts nocturnal wildlife and that a dark sky can solve those problems, boost home values and draw tourists. Opposition to dark sky measures elsewhere in the U.S. have come from the outdoor advertising industry and those against additional government regulations. Researchers say 80 percent of North Americans live in areas where light pollution blots out the night sky. Central Idaho contains one of the few places in the contiguous United States large enough and dark enough to attain reserve status, Barentine said. Only 11 such reserves exist in the world. Leaders in the cities of Ketchum and Sun Valley, the tiny mountain town of Stanley, other local and federal officials, and a conservation group have been working for several years to apply this fall to designate 1,400 square miles (3,600 square kilometers) as a reserve. A final decision by the association would come about 10 weeks after the application is submitted. The association also designates International Dark Sky Parks, with nearly 40 in the U.S. Craters of the Moon

National Monument and Preserve in central Idaho, known as a prime destination among avid stargazers, became one earlier this year. “There is some astro tourism,” said Ketchum Mayor Nina Jonas, a point driven home last month when thousands descended on the town in the path of the total solar eclipse. Ketchum officials have applied to become an International Dark Sky Community and join Flagstaff, Arizona, Dripping Springs, Texas, and Beverly Shores, Indiana. The Idaho city approved a dark sky ordinance requiring residents to install shields on exterior light fixtures to block light from going upward and mandating holiday lighting by businesses and residents be turned off at night. Becoming a dark sky community could help with the larger reserve status and even lift property values in the already pricey area by keeping the night sky visible. Nearby Sun Valley, a ski resort city, also has a dark sky ordinance, as does Hailey about 12 miles (19 kilometers) to the south. “It’s nice to look up and see something greater than ourselves,” Jonas said. The Idaho Conservation League has joined the effort, noting light pollution can adversely affect nocturnal wildlife and people’s sleep rhythms.

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News Clips “Out of all the types of pollution that ICL is engaged in, I see this as one we can combat in an easier way,” said Dani Mazzota, whose group is coordinating eﬀorts among federal and local entities.

reducing light pollution from its buildings, Flannigan said. The agency would not mandate actions, and any light mitigation by others in the recreation area would be voluntary.

That includes an intensive eﬀort by volunteers taking darkness readings throughout the region. Those readings, combined with satellite measurements, will be some of the information used by the International Dark Sky-Association in its decision.

Stanley, a tiny mountain town within the Sawtooth recreation area, runs mostly on tourism money. Its light pollution measures are voluntary but have been eﬀective, not only because they could mean more tourism, but because locals themselves like to see the night sky, said Steve Botti, city council president.

International Dark Sky Reserves have two main components, Barentine said. The first is a core area dark enough to meet the association’s standards. The second is a buffer area with communities that demonstrate support in protecting the core by limiting light pollution. The proposed Idaho reserve is mainly land managed by the U.S. Forest Service and contains the wilderness of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. “We have a preservation and protection mission, and preserving the dark sky and mitigating light pollution is a really good fit for the Sawtooth National Recreation Area,” said ranger Kirk Flannigan. He said a survey of landowners, livestock grazing permit holders, recreation outfitters, lodges and cabin owners found almost universal support for creating the reserve. The Forest Service will contribute by putting up informational signs about the dark sky reserve and

“I go out most every night and look at it because it’s so dramatic,” he said. TOPICS: Travel News You Need Want to see what readers are saying about our stories? Check out the conversations on Boston.com's Facebook Page Tips? Corrections? Feedback? Email us at tips@boston.com

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The Washington Post

Wonkblog



Analysis

How Americans lost the stars News Clips and how we might be able to How Americans lost the stars get them back and how we might be able to The Washington Post

Wonkblog



Analysis

get them back

By Christopher Ingraham October 13, 2017

By Christopher Ingraham Christopher Ingraham October 13, 2017 By

The United States is poised to get its first Dark Sky Reserve under the pristine nighttime skies of central

Idaho. Pending approval Pending approval from the International Dark-Sky Association, , the designation would recognize the region's clearof skies, Idaho. Association The United States is poised to get its first Dark Sky Reserve under the pristine nighttime skies central virtually untouched by light pollution, as “possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and nocturnal

the International Dark-Sky Association, the designation would recognize the region's clear skies, Idaho. Pending approval from environment.” virtually untouched by light pollution, asor near “possessing exceptional ordark distinguished quality ofwould starry nights and nocturnal If you've lived in cities most of your an life and have never seen a truly sky you may not understand why anyone environment.”

bother with this. The night is dark, and dark is dark wherever you are, right? Not exactly. The best way to explain what the Idaho Dark Sky Reserve backers want to preserve is to show it visually. Below are two photographs: on the left, a shot of the night skies in Washington, D.C. On the right, the sky above Idaho's White Cloud mountains, which would make up part of the proposed reserve.

If you've lived in or near cities most of your life and have never seen a truly dark sky you may not understand why anyone would If you squint real hard you can make out one, maybe two stars in the photo on the left. On the right there are hundreds, perhaps bother with this. The night is dark, and dark is dark wherever you are, right? thousands, with millions more casting their unearthly glow through the gas and dust clouds of our own Milky Way galaxy — the streak of nebulous light traversing the photo diagonally. Why can't you see the Milky Way from the D.C.? Light pollution: Streetlights and security lights and lit-up buildings contribute Not exactly. The best way to explain what the Idaho Dark Sky Reserve backers want to preserve is to show it visually. Below are to a massive dome of purple-grey haze that washes out all but a handful of the brightest stars. The farther away you get from city

of the night skyskies you can see. in densely populated areas like the Eastthe Coast, right, you need tothe travel sky hundreds of two photographs: on the left, acenters, shottheofmore the night inButWashington, D.C. On above Idaho's White Cloud miles before you reach truly unpolluted skies.

mountains, which would make up part of the proposed reserve.

Because so much of what we can see from space is incredibly faint, at the edge of human perception, the effect of even a small amount of ambient light on the night sky can be dramatic. Below, for instance, is a simulation of the same slice of night sky viewed through different levels of light pollution.

If you squint real hard you can make out one, maybe two stars in the photo on the left. On the right there are hundreds, perhaps When light pollution is low, you can make out the structure of the Milky Way and even view some deep-space objects, like

thousands, with millions more galaxies casting their glow through the out gas dust of our and nebulae, withunearthly the naked eye. Viewing the night sky is like looking not and just across space, clouds but across time as well. own Milky Way galaxy — the streak of nebulous light traversing the photo diagonally. Why can't you see the Milky Way from the D.C.? Light pollution: Streetlights and security lights and lit-up buildings contribute to a massive dome of purple-grey haze that washes out all but a handful of the brightest stars. The farther away you get from city centers, the more of the night sky you can see. But in densely populated areas like the East Coast, you need to travel hundreds of miles before you reach truly unpolluted skies. Because so much of what we can see from space is incredibly faint, at the edge of human perception, the effect of even a small amount of ambient light on the night sky can be dramatic. Below, for instance, is a simulation of the same slice of night sky viewed through different levels of light pollution. When light pollution is low, you can make out the structure of the Milky Way and even view some deep-space objects, like galaxies and nebulae, with the naked eye. Viewing the night sky is like looking out not just across space, but across time as well. The Andromeda Galaxy, for instance, is 2.5 million light-years away — the light we see from it was emitted long before the first modern humans walked on Earth. You can actually see it without a telescope, but not if you're anywhere near a city. Paradoxically, the darkest night skies appear filled with light. Under the right conditions, the Milky Way even appears bright enough to cast a faint shadow. Before the widespread adoption of electric lighting, these night-sky riches were accessible to just about anyone living anywhere. “Less than 100 years ago, everyone could look up and see a spectacular starry night sky,” the International Dark-Sky Association writes. “Now, millions of children across the globe will never experience the Milky Way where they live.”

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That's where places like the proposed Dark Sky Reserve in Idaho come in. “When we lose the night sky, we lose a piece of

ourselves,” said Dani Mazzotta of the Idaho Conservation League. “Being able to look into the cosmos, look past the earth, look into the heavens, that is a really strong, profound experience.” Mazzotta's been working on the Dark Sky Reserve designation with central Idaho communities for two years. The reserve would

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The Andromeda Galaxy, for instance, is 2.5 million light-years away — the light we see from it was emitted long before the first modern humans walked on Earth. You can actually see it without a telescope, but not if you're anywhere near a city. The Andromeda Galaxy, for instance, is 2.5 million light-years away — the light we see from it was emitted long before the first Paradoxically, the darkest night skies appear filled with light. Under the right conditions, the Milky Way even appears bright modern humans walked on Earth. You can actually see it without a telescope, but not if you're anywhere near a city. enough to cast a faint shadow.

News Clips

Paradoxically, the darkest night skies appear filled with light. Under the right conditions, the Milky Way even appears bright Before the widespread adoption of electric lighting, these night-sky riches were accessible to just about anyone living anywhere. enough to cast a faint shadow. “Less than 100 years ago, everyone could look up and see a spectacular starry night sky,” the International Dark-Sky Association writes. “Now, millions of children across the globe will never experience the Milky Way where they live.” Before the widespread adoption of electric lighting, these night-sky riches were accessible to just about anyone living anywhere. “Less than 100 years ago, everyone could look up and see a spectacular starry night sky,” the International Dark-Sky Association That's where places like the proposed Dark Sky Reserve in Idaho come in. “When we lose the night sky, we lose a piece of writes. “Now, millions of children across the globe will never experience the Milky Way where they live.” ourselves,” said Dani Mazzotta of the Idaho Conservation League. “Being able to look into the cosmos, look past the earth, look into the heavens, that is a really strong, profound experience.” That's where places like the proposed Dark Sky Reserve in Idaho come in. “When we lose the night sky, we lose a piece of ourselves,” said Dani Mazzotta of the Idaho Conservation League. “Being able to look into the cosmos, look past the earth, look Mazzotta's been working on the Dark Sky Reserve designation with central Idaho communities for two years. The reserve would into the heavens, that is a really strong, profound experience.” encompass roughly 900,000 acres in central Idaho. Most of it is public land owned by the U.S. Forest Service. A key requirement of the designation is that communities within the reserve's boundaries, like Ketchum and Sun Valley, commit to Mazzotta's been working on the Dark Sky Reserve designation with central Idaho communities for two years. The reserve would minimizing their own light pollution. Most of those communities already have light pollution ordinances in place, Mazzotta encompass roughly 900,000 acres in central Idaho. Most of it is public land owned by the U.S. Forest Service. A key said, making the region an ideal location for the country's first Dark Sky Reserve. requirement of the designation is that communities within the reserve's boundaries, like Ketchum and Sun Valley, commit to minimizing their own light pollution. Most of those communities already have light pollution ordinances in place, Mazzotta The communities within the reserve hope they can capitalize on the designation economically, via “astro-tourism.” “Most people said, making the region an ideal location for the country's first Dark Sky Reserve. when they come here from a place without dark skies, they look up and they're just like 'wow, this is phenomenal,'" Mazzotta

said. She points to existing dark sky festivals in places like Jasper, Canada and Lassen Volcanic National Park as potential The communities within the reserve hope they can capitalize on the designation economically, via “astro-tourism.” “Most people models for what central Idaho could do. when they come here from a place without dark skies, they look up and they're just like 'wow, this is phenomenal,'" Mazzotta said. She points to existing dark sky festivals in places like Jasper, Canada and Lassen Volcanic National Park as potential There's certainly a large potential market for it. Nearly 80 percent of people living in North America are unable to see the Milky models for what central Idaho could do. Way from where they live, according to a 2016 study that mapped the extent of global light pollution. Starting with satellite measurements of ground-based light emissions, a team of earth scientists and astronomers applied a sophisticated algorithm to There's certainly a large potential market for it. Nearly 80 percent of people living in North America are unable to see the Milky measure how that light bounced and refracted through the atmosphere, washing out the night sky to observers on the ground. Way from where they live, according to a 2016 study that mapped the extent of global light pollution. Starting with satellite measurements of ground-based light emissions, a team of earth scientists and astronomers applied a sophisticated algorithm to Here, for instance, is the map of light pollution across the United States. Blacks and greys indicate pristine and near-pristine measure how that light bounced and refracted through the atmosphere, washing out the night sky to observers on the ground. skies. Light pollution then runs up the rainbow gamut of colors, from blue to red, and finally pink and white designate extreme light pollution in places like city centers. Here, for instance, is the map of light pollution across the United States. Blacks and greys indicate pristine and near-pristine skies. Light pollution then runs up the rainbow gamut of colors, from blue to red, and finally pink and white designate extreme Zooming into the East Coast, you can see that there's an almost unbroken swath of white and pink running from New York to light pollution in places like city centers. D.C. From Washington, the closest truly dark skies are over 600 miles away in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario. Zooming into the East Coast, you can see that there's an almost unbroken swath of white and pink running from New York to D.C. From Washington, the closest truly dark skies are over 600 miles away in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario. By contrast, here's how the area of the proposed Dark Sky Reserve in Idaho looks: Long story short? Where there's people, there's light. And where there's too much light, the night sky is lost to us. By contrast, here's how the area of the proposed Dark Sky Reserve in Idaho looks: If you can't make it to central Idaho any time soon, that light pollution map is a good way to find nearby places that offer skies darker than what you're used to. Dark sky advocates say the experience is well worth the trip if you have to make one. “Before we devised artificial lights and atmospheric pollution and modern forms of nocturnal entertainment we watched the stars,” astronomer Carl Sagan wrote in his book “Pale Blue Dot.” “Even today the most jaded city dweller can be unexpectedly moved upon encountering a clear night sky studded with thousands of twinkling stars. When it happens to me after all these years it still takes my breath away.”

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Idaho looking to cash in on starry skies with more tourists By KEITH RIDLER Associated Press NOVEMBER 4, 2017, 12:30 PM

BOISE, IDAHO

he stars are aligning for Idaho â&#x20AC;&#x201D; mainly because they're visible.

The International Dark-Sky Association this week named the central Idaho city of Ketchum an International Dark Sky Community, only the 16th in the world, after years of efforts to limit excess artificial light. It comes as bigger parts of the state received or are seeking rare dark-sky designations that can attract stargazers and boost home values. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in south-central Idaho, a prime destination for astronomy buffs, became an International Dark Sky Park earlier this year, one of about 40 in the United States. And the rarest prize of all could come in December when the association decides whether to designate 1,400 square miles (3,600 square kilometers) in central Idaho an International Dark Sky Reserve. It would be the first in the nation. Idaho is "becoming one of the centers of interest in dark skies in the country," said John Barentine, program manager at the Tucson, Arizona-based International Dark-Sky Association. Much of Ketchum's economy runs on tourism, and the designations could bring in additional visitors. Thousands descended on the mountain resort town for last summer's total solar eclipse, and it's sandwiched between the ritzy Sun Valley to the east and Sun Valley Resort's ski area on Bald Mountain to the west, which draws tourists from across the globe. The town's designation is due to the "work of so many who have devoted time and energy to reducing light pollution across our city and neighborhoods so that we can enjoy the truly amazing views we have of the night sky," Mayor Nina Jones said in a statement. Ketchum, with some of the highest home prices in Idaho, is the first city in the state to be named a Dark Sky Community. The association started making such designations in 2001, which also include Sedona, Arizona; Beverly Shores, Indiana; and Moffat, Scotland. Dark-sky measures have drawn opposition in the U.S. from the outdoor advertising industry and those against additional government regulations. The Ketchum designation could help as the International Dark-Sky Association considers a 127-page application for the reserve in Idaho. Barentine said the group looks at what surrounding communities are doing to protect the dark core area of the reserve. "It's more like a restoration effort in the communities, and it's more of a preservation effort in the parks and reserves," he said. Barentine said Craters of the Moon monument is too far away from the proposed reserve to be a factor in the decision, expected in mid-December. Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Copyright ÂŠ 2018, Chicago Tribune

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1/18/2018

Idaho lands nation's ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve

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By KEITH RIDLER Dec. 19, 2017

https://www RELATED TOPICS North America Light pollution Environment United States Idaho Pollution More from North America

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A giant chunk of central Idaho with a dazzling night sky has become the nation’s ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve. The International Dark-Sky Association late Monday designated the 1,400-square-mile (3,600-square-kilometer) Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve. The sparsely populated area’s night skies are so pristine that interstellar dust clouds are visible in the Milky Way. “That such truly dark nighttime environments still exist in the United States is remarkable,” said J. Scott Feierabend, executive director of the Tucson, Arizona,-based association, calling the designation a milestone1/18/2018 for the group.

Idaho lands nation's ﬁrst International Dark

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1/18/2018

Idaho lands nation's ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve

In November, the International Dark-Sky Association named Ketchum an International Dark Sky Community, only the 16th in

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the world. Earlier this year, the association named Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in south-central Idaho an International Dark Sky Park, one of about 40 in the United States.

Researchers say 80 percent of North Americans live in areas where light pollution blots out the night sky. The central Idaho reserve covers some of the most remote and rugged areas in the state and is mostly land managed by the U.S. 1/18/2018 Idaho lands nation's first International Dark Sky Reserve Forest Service. It contains wilderness areas and the Sawtooth In November, the International Dark-Sky Association named National Recreation Area. Ketchum an International Dark Sky Community, only the 16th in “The Reserve’s chief draw is its wilderness quality, with its lack the world. Earlier this year, the association named Craters of the of development and significant visitor services,” the association Moon National Monument and Preserve in south-central Idaho said on its website. an International Dark Sky Park, one of about 40 in the United States. The Forest Service has supported the designation as part of its mandate to preserve natural and scenic qualities. It has reduced But getting the rarest prize of all with the reserve, officials said, light pollution from its buildings, but said mitigation by others took several decades of work and included efforts from communities on the edges of the reserve to reduce nighttime in the recreation area would be voluntary. lighting. The association looks at what surrounding Opposition to dark sky measures elsewhere in the U.S. has come communities are doing to protect the dark core area of a from the outdoor advertising industry and those against proposed reserve. additional government regulations. Volunteers also fanned out across the region to take light Supporters say excess artificial light causes sleeping problems readings at night, and the Idaho Conservation League, an for people and disrupts nocturnal wildlife and that a dark sky environmental group, supported the designation aiming to limit can solve those problems, boost home values and draw tourists. light pollution. “Sun Valley is excited about this prestigious designation and I believe this is something that will benefit residents and visitors alike,” said Sun Valley Mayor Peter Hendricks. Sun Valley, a resort destination that also has some of Idaho’s highest home values, is within the reserve as is neighboring Ketchum. Both towns have worked to limit nighttime lighting.

Stanley, a tiny town in the recreation But getting themountain rarest prize of all withSawtooth the reserve, oﬃcialsarea said, on the northern side of the reserve, runs mostly on tourism took several decades work and included efforts from money and hasonsupported reserve withtovoluntary measures communities the edgesthe of the reserve reduce nighttime to limit outdoor lighting. looks at what surrounding lighting. The association communities are doing to protect the dark core area of a “Visitors can come here and experience the primeval wonder of proposed reserve. the starry night sky,” Mayor Steve Botti said.

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Volunteers also fanned out across the region to take light readings at night, and the Idaho Conservation League, an by Taboola More From AP environmental group, supported the designation aiming to limit Grandparents light pollution. shocked by reports of 13 starved grandchildren Stanley, a tiny mountain town in the Sawtooth recreation area https://www.apnews.com/1774204076f442a9b89797ae704d849d/Idaho-lands-nation's-ﬁrst-International-Dark-Sky-Reserve?utm_campaign=SocialFlow&utm_source… on the northern side of the reserve, runs mostly on tourism money and has supported the reserve with voluntary measures to limit outdoor lighting. THE VELTEX BUILDING, 420 WEST MAIN STREET, SUITE 205 | BOISE, IDAHO 83702 STRATEGIES360.COM “Visitors can come here and experience the primeval wonder of p 18 the starry night sky,” Mayor Steve Botti said.

1/16/2018

Clear, dark skies are disappearing in the U.S. — except in rural Idaho – VICE News

VICE NEWS TONIGHT

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Clear, dark skies are disappearing in the U.S. — except in rural Idaho – VICE News

VICE NEWS TONIGHT

1/16/2018

Clear, dark skies are disappearing in the U.S. — except in rural Idaho – VICE News

CLEAR, DARK SKIES ARE DISAPPEARING IN CLEAR, DARK SKIES ARE DISAPPEARING IN THE U.S. — EXCEPT IN RURAL IDAHO THE U.S. — EXCEPT IN RURAL IDAHO To get the honor, local homes and businesses had to abide by local ordinances limiting light pollution. This includes changing to outdoor light bulbs that emit soft yellows and aiming them downwards to get a better view of the night sky. VICE News went to Ketchum, ID to learn about how the reserve came to be and why it's so important.

By Nigel Duara Jan 7, 2018

Dark skies are disappearing across the United States. Dark skies are disappearing across the United States. Today, more than 80 percent of Americans can't see the Milky Way from their home

Today, more than 80 percent of Americans can't see the Milky Way from their home cities. But deep in rural Idaho, the skies are alive. cities. But deep in rural Idaho, the skies are alive. The International Dark-Sky Association has named nearly a million acres in central Idaho a Dark Sky Reserve, a designation that means counties and towns in the area

The International Dark-Sky Association has named nearly a million acres in central pledge to take measures to keep the dark, well, dark. Idaho a Dark Sky Reserve, a designation that means counties and towns in the area  pledge to take measures to keep the dark, well, dark. ADVERTISEMENT Clear, dark skies are disappearing in the U.S. — except in rural Idaho – VICE News

1/16/2018

To get the honor, local homes and businesses had to abide by local ordinances limiting We'll try not to show that ad again Stop seeing this ad Why this ad? light pollution. This includes changing to outdoor light bulbs that emit soft yellows and aiming them downwards to get a better view of the night sky. VICE News went to We'll try not to show that ad again Ketchum, ID to learn about how the reserve came to be and why it's so important. Clear, dark skies are disappearing in the U.S. — except in rural Idaho – VICE News

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To get the honor, local homes and businesses had to abide by local ordinances limiting light pollution. This includes changing to outdoor light bulbs that emit soft yellows and aiming them downwards to get a better view of the night sky. VICE News went to Ketchum, ID to learn about how the reserve came to be and why it's so important. https://news.vice.com/en_us/article/xw4ww4/clear-dark-skies-are-disappearing-in-the-us-except-in-rural-idaho

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"Blue light and shorter wavelengths of light are important to adult behavior and human health, and animal health," said Brett Seymoure, a behavioral ecologist at Colorado State University. "This evolved so we know when it's night and when it's day. So you have a blue light, it's telling you that it's day even though it's night. https://news.vice.com/en_us/article/xw4ww4/clear-dark-skies-are-disappearing-in-the-us-except-in-rural-idaho 1/4 1/16/2018 Clear, dark skies are disappearing in the U.S. — except in rural Idaho – VICE News  This segment originally aired December 19, 2017, on VICE News Tonight on HBO.

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http://magicvalley.com/news/local/dark-skies-designation-awarded-to-central-idaho-reserve/article_6b14bf2b-b65f-528b-9826-2641c1fb4ad4.html

Dark skies designation awarded to Central Idaho reserve By Karen Bossick For the Times-News Dec 19, 2017

1/16/2018

Dark skies designation awarded to Central Idaho reserve | Southern Idaho Local News | magicvalley.com

KETCHUM — Sun Valley will soon be known as more than America’s ﬁrst ski destination.

A 1,400-square mile area encompassing Sun Valley, Ketchum, Stanley and the forests between is now a sanctuary for stargazers. Dark sky proponents learned Monday evening that the Tucson, Ariz.-based International Dark-Sky Association will make that portion of central Idaho, which includes parts of Blaine, Boise, Custer and Elmore counties, the United States’ ﬁrst Dark Sky Reserve. 1/16/2018

Dark skies designation awarded to Central Idaho reserve | Southern Idaho Local News | magicvalley.com

This June 18,— 2017, photo provided by Nils Ribi Photography the Milky WayAmerica’s over the Smoky Mountains near Ketchum, Idaho. The KETCHUM Sun Valley will soon be knownshows as more than ﬁrst ski destination.

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International Dark-Sky Association on Tuesday, Oct. 31 designated the central Idaho city of Ketchum an International Dark Sky Community, only the 16th in the world.

A 1,400-square mile Nils Ribi Photography via AParea encompassing Sun Valley, Ketchum, Stanley and the forests between is now a sanctuary for stargazers. http://magicvalley.com/news/local/dark-skies-designation-awarded-to-central-idaho-reserve/article_6b14bf2b-b65f-528b-9826-2641c1fb4ad4.html 1/5 Dark sky proponents learned Monday evening that the Tucson, Ariz.-based International Dark-Sky Association will make that portion of central Idaho, which includes parts of Blaine, Boise, Custer and Elmore counties, the United States’ ﬁrst Dark Sky Reserve.

The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is the largest of 12 Dark Sky Reserves around the world, including those in England, Wales, France, Germany, Africa, Canada and New Zealand. It received certification for its exceptional starry nights and nocturnal environment. The designation is designed to help preserve the skies above for future generations to enjoy. “Every year we’ll have to look at the local lights to see if they’re in compliance. Every year we’ll have to keep on improving so this is not a one-and-done deal,” said Betsy Mizell, community engagement associate for the Ketchum office of the Idaho Conservation League. Scientists estimate that 80 percent of Americans cannot see the stars due to light pollution, and that pollution is The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is the largest of 12 Dark Sky Reserves around the world, including those in increasing 6 percent each year. England, Wales, France, Germany, Africa, Canada and New Zealand. It received certification for its exceptional starry nocturnal environment. A newnights study and published in “Science Advances” journal, showed that artificial light is negatively affecting the pollination of plants, the spreading of seeds by nocturnal creatures and reproduction and migratory patterns. The designation is designed to help preserve the skies above for future generations to enjoy. Artificial light is also causing sleep disorders among some humans.

“Every year we’ll have to look at the local lights to see if they’re in compliance. Every year we’ll have to keep on “We’re the reason for light pollution. And we are the ones who can solve it,” said Mizell. ICL sent volunteers out improving so this is not a one-and-done deal,” said Betsy Mizell, community engagement associate for the Ketchum earlier this year to take meter readings in different areas of the proposed reserve for the International Dark-Sky office of the Idaho Conservation League. Association to consider. Scientists estimate that 80 percent of Americans cannot see the stars due to light pollution, and that pollution is “We can turn lights off,” Mizell said. “We can install lights that don’t shine into the sky.” increasing 6 percent each year. The establishment of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve could help pave the way for astrotourism in the Sun Valley A new study published in “Science Advances” journal, showed that artificial light is negatively affecting the and Stanley areas. pollination of plants, the spreading of seeds by nocturnal creatures and reproduction and migratory patterns. Artificial light is Nina also causing sleep amongofsome humans. Ketchum Mayor Jonas said shedisorders got a glimpse the interest in space during the total solar eclipse on Aug. 21,

which brought 400 members of the American Astronomical Society to Sun Valley. “We’re the reason for light pollution. And we are the ones who can solve it,” said Mizell. ICL sent volunteers out earlier this year to take meter readings in different areas of the proposed reserve for the International Dark-Sky http://magicvalley.com/news/local/dark-skies-designation-awarded-to-central-idaho-reserve/article_6b14bf2b-b65f-528b-9826-2641c1fb4ad4.html Association to consider.

THE VELTEX BUILDING, 420 WEST MAIN STREET, SUITE 205 | BOISE, IDAHO 83702 “We can turn lights off,” Mizell said. “We can install lights that don’t shine into the sky.”

The establishment of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve could help pave the way for astrotourism in the Sun Valley and Stanley areas. Ketchum Mayor Nina Jonas said she got a glimpse of the interest in space during the total solar eclipse on Aug. 21, which brought 400 members of the American Astronomical Society to Sun Valley.

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Dark skies designation awarded to Central Idaho reserve | Southern Idaho Local News | magicvalley.com

John Baretine, program manager for the International Dark-Sky Association, says he sees a rising middle class in places like China that are eager to spend their money visiting out-of the-way places to see the night sky. Mizell noted the designation might spur a dark sky festival, such as the Jasper Dark Sky Festival. That festival, held in mid-October, includes a Symphony under the Stars, dark sky photo tours, a sky trams star session and full moon hikes.

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Astronomer Matt Benjamin, who teaches astronomy at the University of Colorado-Boulder, visits Sun Valley regularly, in part to view the stunning night sky.

1/16/2018

Dark skies designation awarded to Central Idaho reserve | Southern Idaho Local News | magicvalley.com

John Baretine, program manager for the International Dark-Sky Association, says he sees a rising middle class in “I can’t see what I see here at home because of the light from Denver. Even Rocky Mountain National Park has places like China that are eager to spend their money visiting out-of the-way places to see the night sky. nothing close to the night sky you see here,” he said. “The Grand Canyon is impacted by lights from Phoenix and Las Vegas. Central Idaho is the last great place to see the stars so it makes sense to preserve it.” Mizell noted the designation might spur a dark sky festival, such as the Jasper Dark Sky Festival. That festival, held in mid-October, includes a Symphony under the Stars, dark sky photo tours, a sky trams star session and full moon hikes. Astronomer Matt Benjamin, who teaches astronomy at the University of Colorado-Boulder, visits Sun Valley regularly, in part to view the stunning night sky. “I can’t see what I see here at home because of the light from Denver. Even Rocky Mountain National Park has nothing close to the night sky you see here,” he said. “The Grand Canyon is impacted by lights from Phoenix and Las Vegas. Central Idaho is the last great place to see the stars so it makes sense to preserve it.” But, Benjamin says, protectors of the dark sky also need to beware of ambient light coming from nearby cities. The lights of Boise, for instance, sometimes cast a glow as far away as the Galena Summit overlook near Stanley. Mizell said she hopes after the establishment of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, central Idaho leaders will talk with other communities like Boise and Twin Falls to ﬁnd ways to cut down on light pollution. Those measures include using shields to direct exterior light downward, rather than allow it to escape upwards. Wood River Valley residents now can display Christmas lights only between Nov. 20 and March 20.

The drive to preserve the dark night skies around Sun Valley started 18 years ago with Dr. Stephen Pauley, a retired ear, nose and throat surgeon who became enchanted with the celestial sphere during a sailing voyage in 1977 that But, Benjamin says, protectors of the dark sky also need to beware of ambient light coming from nearby cities. The took him from California to Hawaii. He navigated by the night sky, taking measurements with a sexton while his 10lights of Boise, for instance, sometimes cast a glow as far away as the Galena Summit overlook near Stanley. year-old son, Clarke, kept time. Mizell said she hopes after the establishment of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, central Idaho leaders will talk After moving to Sun Valley’s Elkhorn neighborhood, he began training his Meade R8 reflector telescope on the with other communities like Boise and Twin Falls to find ways to cut down on light pollution. starscapes he saw splashed across Sun Valley. Those measures include using shields to direct exterior light downward, rather than allow it to escape upwards. “We wouldn’t have a dark sky today if we had allowed light to creep up one light at a time,” Pauley said. “The night Wood River Valley residents now can display Christmas lights only between Nov. 20 and March 20. sky is definitely a quality of life issue. And, while it was a long process to get to where we are now, it was the right thing to dotogiven the spectacular starscapes that residents of Sun Valley are exposed to Dr. almost nightly.” The drive preserve the dark night skies around Sun Valley started 18 years ago with Stephen Pauley, a retired

ear, nose and throat surgeon who became enchanted with the celestial sphere during a sailing voyage in 1977 that Dark skies designation awarded to Central Idaho reserve | Southern Idaho Local News | magicvalley.com took him from California to Hawaii. He navigated by the night sky, taking measurements with a sexton while his 10The City son, of Ketchum was also year-old Clarke, kept time.designated an International Dark Sky Community in late October, becoming just the http://magicvalley.com/news/local/dark-skies-designation-awarded-to-central-idaho-reserve/article_6b14bf2b-b65f-528b-9826-2641c1fb4ad4.html 3/5 16th city in the world to receive that designation. Nearby Craters of the Moon National Monument became one of nearlymoving 40 International Dark Sky Parksneighborhood, earlier this year. After to Sun Valley’s Elkhorn he began training his Meade R8 reﬂector telescope on the starscapes he saw splashed across Sun Valley. The City of Ketchum is throwing a Winter Solstice Party to celebrate the recent designations from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec.have 21, at the Ketchum The city is to providing wine, Pauley beer and hors“The d’oeuvres “We wouldn’t a dark sky todayTown if weSquare. had allowed light creep upcomplimentary one light at a time,” said. night at Starbucks on the square.of life issue. And, while it was a long process to get to where we are now, it was the right sky is deﬁnitely a quality thing to do given the spectacular starscapes that residents of Sun Valley are exposed to almost nightly.” “This latest designation is a tribute to all the people in the Wood River Valley and Stanley who wanted to watch the stars and have been careful about their outdoor lights,” Pauley said. 1/16/2018

http://magicvalley.com/news/local/dark-skies-designation-awarded-to-central-idaho-reserve/article_6b14bf2b-b65f-528b-9826-2641c1fb4ad4.html

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Idaho continues to grow as a dark sky destination with new designation ALEX BUTLER

Lonely Planet Writer

7 NOVEMBER 2017

Many travellers in Idaho have their sights set on the slopes, but more and more visitors will have their eyes to the skies as the city of Ketchum has been oﬃcially named an International Dark Sky Community as the state pushes for a new dark sky reserve.

Redﬁsh Lake, Sawtooth Mtns, Idaho. Some lights from campﬁres around lake. Image by Alan V. Young/Getty Images

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Idaho Could Host Dark Sky Reserve | The Weather Channel

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1/16/2018

Idaho Dims The Lights For One Of The Best Night Skies Anywhere : NPR

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Idaho Dims The Lights For One Of The Best Night Skies Anywhere : NPR

The moon is high as twilight descends on the hills and woods on the outskirts of the small Idaho mountain town of Stanley. On ON AIR NOW a clear night, the galactic dust of the Milky Way is visible overhead. Boise State Public Radio

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Idaho Dims The Lights For One Of The Best Night Skies Anywhere : NPR

Matt Guilhem/Boise State Public Radio

In a high mountain valley in central Idaho over 6,000 feet in elevation, the last hint of a glow from sun fades in the western sky. The conditions are perfect as Steve Botti, an astronomy enthusiast and city councilman for the tiny town of Stanley, holds his sky quality meter to the heavens. There are no clouds, and the moon has dipped behind the craggy Sawtooth Mountains as he assesses the darkness of the sky with the little device that looks like a pager. His arm extended and his head snugly wrapped in a beanie, Botti says, "A reading of 21.75 or higher is considered by the dark sky association to be exceptionally dark." On a clear night here you can see the purple cloud of the Milky Way stretched across the sky. The rare sight is possible because people are making an effort to keep the night sky dark. Dark enough, they hope, to earn a seal of approval from the International Dark-Sky Association. Botti pushes a button and the device momentarily pauses; then, several computer beeps sound. A number in red appears on the small machine's display. "21.76!" Botti announces. With the darkest dark being 22 magnitudes per square arc second, the sky just outside town is pristine. The region surrounding the outpost would be part of a proposed Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the first of its kind in the U.S. Botti has been leading the charge for the Idaho reserve for two years. Standing under the sea of twinkling stars, he says to get a similar view, you'd have to travel â&#x20AC;&#x201D; far. "Well, there's a dark sky reserve in Namibia in southern Africa, which is very remote," he says. "It's a desert region, no cities close by." It's one of just 11 reserves around the world recognized for the quality and depth of the darkness. Some of the others are in New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Germany. Out of the five categories the International Dark-Sky Association recognizes, John Barentine, the association's program manager, says a reserve is the most difficult https://www.npr.org/2017/11/25/566074921/idaho-dims-the-lights-for-one-of-the-best-night-skies-anywhere

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Idaho Dims The Lights For One Of The Best Night Skies Anywhere : NPR

status to achieve. The Arizona-based group vets and credentials exceptionally dark locales. In the case of central Idaho's bid for a reserve, Barentine didn't seek out the people in one of the darkest places left in the Lower 48 states. "It was some folks from Stanley â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they told me that they view the nighttime darkness, and you know, the ability to see the Milky Way, as something that is definitive of their part of the state and their part of the country," says Barentine.

Stanley Lake lake sits at an elevation of about 6,500 feet. Isolated from big cities and surrounded by mountains, the area is one of the darkest regions left in the Lower 48 states. Matt Guilhem/Boise State Public Radio

About 50 miles southeast of Stanley, on the other side of a high mountain pass, is Ketchum â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a resort town that was also the final home of Ernest Hemingway. https://www.npr.org/2017/11/25/566074921/idaho-dims-the-lights-for-one-of-the-best-night-skies-anywhere

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Idaho Dims The Lights For One Of The Best Night Skies Anywhere : NPR

After enacting its first ordinance to curb light pollution and protect the sky in 1999, Ketchum was recognized by the international association in October as an official Dark Sky Community. When she is not the mayor of Ketchum, Nina Jonas is working away at the Asian street food restaurant she runs with her husband, who is the chef. As she begins prepping for the nightly wave of diners, Jonas ticks off some of the very specific criteria for the official Dark Sky Community recognition. "Well, you can't have any light going straight up," she says, "so you have to have a cap on your light shining it down. Then you get into the argument of lumens, wattage, foot-candles, so ... brightness, let's just call it brightness. There's a brightness degree, and then there's also a color degree." There are a lot of rules. Leaving the local market with a few groceries on a chilly afternoon is Judy Berg. She and her husband have lived in Ketchum for 25 years. While it might seem burdensome, Berg says following the dark sky ordinance has become second nature to residents. "Everybody seems to comply with it," Berg says. "I think the ones who don't are people who just move here and aren't familiar with it â&#x20AC;&#x201D; haven't lived with it. When they realize how nice it is, then they're compliant." The head of the city's planning and building department says during his three years on the job, the city hasn't issued a single citation for lights out of compliance. Soon, all the paperwork and all the measurements that have gone in to applying for the seal of approval for central Idaho's star-streaked sky could pay off. A designated dark sky reserve could bring a whole new crowd of celestial tourists. The International Dark-Sky Association is expected to make a decision about central Idaho by the end of the year.

https://www.npr.org/2017/11/25/566074921/idaho-dims-the-lights-for-one-of-the-best-night-skies-anywhere

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Idaho lands nation’s ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve | The Seattle Times

 Search

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Idaho lands nation’s ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve | The Seattle Times

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 Search Idaho lands nation’s ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve | The Seattle Times

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Featured Video By KEITH RIDLER

Idaho lands nation’s ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve | The Seattle Times Nation & World

Idaho lands nation’s first International Dark Sky Idaho lands nation’s first International Dark Sky The Associated Press Reserve Reserve 

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BOISE, Idaho (AP)    — A giant chunk of central Idaho with a dazzling night sky has become the nation’s first International Dark Sky Reserve. Originally published December 19, 2017 at 8:34 am Updated December 19, 2017 at 8:31 pm

Originally published December 19, 2017 at 8:34 am Updated December 19, 2017 at 8:31 pm

Monday designated the 1,400-squareThe International Dark-Sky Association late mile (3,600-square-kilometer) Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve. The sparsely From shelter to shelter for three years and counting (3:22) populated area’s night skies are so pristine that interstellar dust clouds are visible in the Milky Way. Most Read Stories By KEITH RIDLER This June 18, 2017, photo provided by Nils Ribi Photography shows the Milky Way over the Smoky Mountains in central Idaho. A giant chunk of central Idaho with a dazzling night sky has become the

ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve. (Nils Ribi Photography via AP) drop significantly for first time this decade as new apartments sit empty 1 Seattle-area rentsnation’s The Associated Press

Seahawks bringing back Ken Norton Jr. as defensive coordinator

authorities

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A giant chunk of central Idaho with a dazzling night sky has Washington statefirst will International require court order toSky release driver’s license info to immigration become the nation’s Dark Reserve. The International Dark-Sky Association late Monday designated the 1,400-squareAlaska Airlines to begin flights to 8 West Coast cities from Everett's Paine Field this fall 4 (3,600-square-kilometer) mile Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve. The sparsely populated area’s night skies are so pristine that interstellar dust clouds are visible in Analysis | 5 thoughts on the Seahawks' hirings of Brian Schottenheimer, Ken Norton Jr., This June 18, 2017, the Way. photo provided by Nils Ribi Photography shows the Milky Way over the Smoky 5 Milky and in Mike Solari Mountains central Idaho. A giant chunk of central Idaho with a dazzling night sky has become the “That such truly darkDark nighttime environments still exist the United States is nation’s ﬁrst International Sky Reserve. (Nils Ribi Photography viain AP) remarkable,” said J. Scott Feierabend, executive director of the Tucson, Arizona,based association, calling the designation a milestone for the group. Unlimited Digital Access. $1 for 4 weeks. live in areas where light pollution Researchers say 80 percent of North Americans blots out the night sky. https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/idaho-lands-nations-ﬁrst-international-dark-sky-reserve/

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The central Idaho reserve covers some of the most remote and rugged areas in the state and is mostly land managed by the U.S. Forest Service. It contains wilderness https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/idaho-lands-nations-ﬁrst-international-dark-sky-reserve/ areas and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. “The Reserve’s is its wilderness quality, lackUnited of development “That such trulychief darkdraw nighttime environments still with exist its in the States is and https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/idaho-lands-nations-ﬁrst-international-dark-sky-reserve/ significant visitor services,” the association said on its website. remarkable,” said J. Scott Feierabend, executive director of the Tucson, Arizona,-

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based association, the designation a milestone for of theitsgroup. The Forest Service calling has supported the designation as part mandate to preserve natural and scenic It North has reduced light live pollution from its buildings, but said Researchers say 80qualities. percent of Americans in areas where light pollution mitigation bynight others in the recreation area would be voluntary. blots out the sky. https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/idaho-lands-nations-ﬁrst-international-dark-sky-reserve/

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Idaho lands nation’s ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve | The Seattle Times

Opposition to dark sky measures elsewhere in the U.S. has come from the outdoor advertising industry and those against additional government regulations. Supporters say excess artificial light causes sleeping problems for people and disrupts nocturnal wildlife and that a dark sky can solve those problems, boost home values and draw tourists. “Sun Valley is excited about this prestigious designation and I believe this is something that will benefit residents and visitors alike,” said Sun Valley Mayor Peter Hendricks. Sun Valley, a resort destination that also has some of Idaho’s highest home values, is within the reserve as is neighboring Ketchum. Both towns have worked to limit nighttime lighting. In November, the International Dark-Sky Association named Ketchum an International Dark Sky Community, only the 16th in the world. Earlier this year, the association named Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in southcentral Idaho an International Dark Sky Park, one of about 40 in the United States. But getting the rarest prize of all with the reserve, officials said, took several decades of work and included efforts from communities on the edges of the reserve to reduce nighttime lighting. The association looks at what surrounding communities are doing to protect the dark core area of a proposed reserve. Volunteers also fanned out across the region to take light readings at night, and the Idaho Conservation League, an environmental group, supported the designation aiming to limit light pollution. Stanley, a tiny mountain town in the Sawtooth recreation area on the northern side of the reserve, runs mostly on tourism money and has supported the reserve with voluntary measures to limit outdoor lighting. “Visitors can come here and experience the primeval wonder of the starry night sky,” Mayor Steve Botti said.

https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/idaho-lands-nations-ﬁrst-international-dark-sky-reserve/

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Share Article The International Dark-Sky Association announced Monday formal approval of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, the first of

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Central Idaho earns designation as the nation’s ﬁrst dark sky reserve - KIVITV.com Boise, ID

its kind in the United States and one of just 12 such reserves worldwide.

KIVI 38 WEATHER TRAFFIC ALL SECTIONS to an area The organization which is dedicated to protecting and preserving dark skies across the globe gave the designation spanning more than 1,400 square miles in Central Idaho. The reserve stretches from Ketchum/Sun Valley to Stanley, includes area in Blaine, Boise, Custer and Elmore counties and the

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Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The total area of the reserve is 1,416 square miles, making it the third largest in the world. ADVERTISING

Central Idaho earns designation as the nation's first dark sky reserve BY: Lacey Darrow POSTED: 5:37 PM, Dec 18, 2017 UPDATED: 9:31 AM, Dec 20, 2017

Share Article The International Dark-Sky Association announced Monday formal approval of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, the first of its kind in the United States and one of just 12 such reserves worldwide. The organization which is dedicated to protecting and preserving dark skies across the globe gave the designation to an area spanning more than 1,400 square miles in Central Idaho. The reserve stretches from Ketchum/Sun Valley to Stanley, includes area in Blaine, Boise, Custer and Elmore counties and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The total area of the reserve is 1,416 square miles, making it the third largest in the world. “The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve was created not just for locals, but for all Idahoans and visitors from across the world who ADVERTISING

can come here and experience the primeval wonder of the starry night sky,” said Steve Botti, the mayor of Stanley and longtime advocate of the reserve. The decision by IDA culminates nearly two decades of work and policy decisions by local leaders, residents and business leaders to manage and reduce the impact light pollution can have on the region’s night skies and nocturnal environment. Across the country, more than 80 percent of the population resides in cities and metropolitan areas where urban light pollution dilutes and distorts views of the stars and planets. Research shows the Milky Way is hidden from view of more than one-third of the world’s population and light pollution continues to grow and intensify around the world. https://www.kivitv.com/news/central-idaho-earns-designation-as-the-nations-ﬁrst-dark-sky-reserve

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“The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve was created not just for locals, but for all Idahoans and visitors from across the world who can come here and experience the primeval wonder of the starry night sky,” said Steve Botti, the mayor of Stanley and longtime advocate of the reserve. The decision by IDA culminates nearly two decades of work and policy decisions by local leaders, residents and business leaders to manage and reduce the impact light pollution can have on the region’s night skies and nocturnal environment. Across the country, more than 80 percent of the population resides in cities and metropolitan areas where urban light pollution dilutes and distorts views of the stars and planets. Research shows the Milky Way is hidden from view of more than one-third of the world’s population and light pollution continues to grow and intensify around the world. https://www.kivitv.com/news/central-idaho-earns-designation-as-the-nations-ﬁrst-dark-sky-reserve

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The U.S. Now Has Its First Dark Sky Reserve | Travel + Leisure

The U.S. Now Has Its First Dark Sky Reserve

CAILEY RIZZO DECEMBER 19, 2017

Stargazers in search of pristine views of the night sky should be heading to Idaho. The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) approved the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve’s application to become the �rst dark sky reserve in the United States on Monday. It is now one of 12 of�cial dark sky reserves in the world. “Today’s creation of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is a milestone in the history of IDA’s International Dark Sky Places Program,” said IDA Executive Director J. Scott Feierabend, in a statement. “That such truly dark nighttime http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/ﬁrst-dark-sky-reserve-idaho

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The U.S. Now Has Its First Dark Sky Reserve | Travel + Leisure

environments still exist in the United States is remarkable, but even more impressive is the effort undertaken to protect them in this case.” The 1,416-square-mile area in Idaho is the third largest dark sky reserve in the world. It stretches from Sun Valley to Stanley, including parts of Sawtooth National Forest. For amateur astronomers, the reserve promises stellar views of the nighttime sky without any obstruction or nearby light pollution. In order to be named an of�cial dark sky reserve, an area must have “an exceptional or distinguished quality of night sky, view of the stars and nocturnal environment,” according to the IDA. Because of its mountainous topography, the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve “largely resisted electri�cation leading to the deployment of large amounts of arti�cial light,” the IDA said. There are certain parts of the park where visitors won't be able to get cell signals or electricity. The IDA formed in 1988 to combat light pollution. They formed the Dark Sky Places Program in 2001 to work with communities towards developing “responsible lighting policies and public education” to “protect and preserve” the night sky. The IDA also recognizes dark sky communities, parks and sanctuaries. Correction: The article has been updated that only some parts of the reserve are without cell signals, not the entire area.

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U.S.'s First Dark Sky Reserve December 20, 2017

by Bridget Hallinan

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Idaho Is Now Home to the U.S.'s First Dark Sky Reserve - Condé Nast Traveler

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Idaho Is Now Home to the U.S.'s First Dark Sky Reserve - Condé Nast Traveler

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Idaho Is Now Home to the Idaho Is Now Home to the U.S.'s First Dark Sky Reserve U.S.'s First Dark Sky Reserve TR AV E L I N TE L

by Bridget Hallinan

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December 20, 2017

Getty The night skies in the reserve are so clear, you can see interstellar dust clouds.

There are only 12 o cial dark sky reserves worldwide. Getty

Pure, unobstructed stargazing isareasorare 80 percent of North Americans live in areas where light pollution The in nightthe skies inU.S. the reserve clear, youtreat—nearly can see interstellar dust clouds. obscures most of the night sky. However, tourists may soon find themselves flocking to central Idaho to see the stars. According to There are only 12 o cial dark sky reserves worldwide. ABC News, the state just became home to the U.S.'s firstever dark sky reserve, a designated area that provides a pristine view of Pure, unobstructed stargazing in the U.S. is a rare treat—nearly 80 percent of North Americans live in areas where light pollution obscures most ofis the 300 night sky. However, tourists may soon themselves flocking to central Idahosquare to see the stars. According to the cosmos. The newlyminted reserve miles southeast offind Boise, spanning 1,400 miles of Blaine County, Custer ABC News, the state just became home to the U.S.'s firstever dark sky reserve, a designated area that provides a pristine view of

County, and surrounding areas. Central Idaho is only the 12th area worldwide receive Other locations include the cosmos. The newlyminted reserve is 300 miles southeast of Boise, spanning 1,400to square miles of the Blainedistinction: County, Custer County, and surrounding areas. Central Idaho is only the 12th area worldwide to receive the distinction: Other locations include Namibia, France, and New Zealand. Namibia, France, and New Zealand. In order for a location to become a dark sky reserve, several qualifications have to be met. The core area must be exceptionally dark, and the night sky brightness can'tseveral exceed 20 magnitudes per square arcsecond: ablearea to see a must be exceptionally In order for a location to become a dark sky reserve, qualifications have Intoother bewords, met.merely Thebeing core https://www.cntraveler.com/story/idaho-may-soon-be-home-to-the-first-dark-sky-reserve-in-the-us 1/3 dark, and the night sky brightness can't exceed 20 magnitudes per square arcsecond: In other words, merely being able to see a

1/16/2018 Idaho Is Now Home to the U.S.'s First Dark Sky Reserve - Condé Nast Traveler https://www.cntraveler.com/story/idaho-may-soon-be-home-to-the-ﬁrst-dark-sky-reserve-in-the-us

few stars after dinner won't cut it. The potential reserve also has to be at least 700 square kilometers (435 miles), partially or fully accessible to the public, and legally protected for scientific, educational, cultural, and/or public enjoyment purposes. (Dark sky sanctuaries, which are situated in remote locations, are even rarer—there are only three in the world.) To fulfill these measures, cities in Idaho's reserve enacted a dark sky ordinance, which requires residents to install shields on exterior light fixtures and restricts holiday lighting for businesses after hours, according to The Washington Post. And the measures were clearly a success: Getty Central Idaho's night skies are so pristine that "interstellar dust clouds are visible in the Milky Way."

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The night skies in the reserve are so clear, you can see interstellar dust clouds.

Besides providing aweinspiring views, dark sky reserves can be lucrative for participating communities. The ecofriendly There are only 12 o cial dark sky reserves worldwide.

lighting policies foster economic savings, and reduce negative effects of light pollution, such as disrupted sleeping rhythms. And

withunobstructed planets, comets, and meteors clearly they dance across the night sky, these reserveslive attract a lot where of tourism Pure, stargazing in the U.S. isvisible a rareas treat—nearly 80 percent of North Americans in areas lightdollars, pollution too. Those against regulations advertisers aren't as enthusiastic sky projects, but to obscures most of theadditional night sky.government However, tourists may and soonoutdoor find themselves flocking to central Idahoabout to seedark the stars. According as a whole, they're viewed as an excellent way to celebrate natural beauty and encourage green living. ABC News, the state just became home to the U.S.'s firstever dark sky reserve, a designated area that provides a pristine view of

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the cosmos. The newlyminted reserve is 300 miles southeast of Boise, spanning 1,400 square miles of Blaine County, Custer If you can't make it out toareas. the Rocky Mountain State, worry: are stilltoplenty of the dark sky parks you canlocations visit around the County, and surrounding Central Idaho is onlydon't the 12th areaThere worldwide receive distinction: Other include U.S. These parks, though similar in many ways to reserves, don't have to be nearly as large in order to be registered, and still Namibia, France, and New Zealand. provide spectacular views of the night sky. There are nearly 40 of them in the country—one, Joshua Tree National Park, was just approved this summer. Happy stargazing. In order for a location to becomeIdaho a dark reserve, qualiﬁcations have to be met. The core area be exceptionally Issky Now Homeseveral to the U.S.'s First Dark Sky Reserve - Condé Nastmust Traveler dark, and the night sky brightness can't exceed 20 magnitudes per square arcsecond: In other words, merely being able to see a

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By David Grossman Dec 26, 2017

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Idaho Gets Ofﬁcial Recognition for Its Stellar Night Sky

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GETTY / ALAN V. YOUNG

Idaho Gets Official Recognition for Its Stellar Night In the Sawtooth Mountains of central Idaho, 1,416 square miles (3,668 square kilometers) of Sky

land been country's ﬁrst central International Reserve the International If youhas want tonamed escapethe light pollution, IdahoDark has Sky nothing but by stars.

GETTY / ALAN V. YOUNG Dark-Sky Association (IDA), the leading organization that ﬁghts against the light pollution that

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By David Grossman Dec 26, 2017

slowly swallows our view of the universe. In the Sawtooth Mountains of central Idaho, 1,416 square miles (3,668 square kilometers) of

land has been named the country's ﬁrst International Dark Sky Reserve by the International   ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Dark-Sky Association (IDA), the leading organization that ﬁghts against the light pollution that slowly swallows our view of the universe. The Gold-Tier designation, the highest the IDA can award, signiﬁes the quality of the central

Idaho's night sky. The IDA deﬁnes a Dark Sky Reserve as having ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOWa "'dark core' zone surrounded by a populated periphery where policy controls are enacted to protect the darkness of the core."

The Reserve's designation comes after the central Idahoan town of Ketchum was designated a The Gold-Tier designation, the highest the IDA can award, signiﬁes the quality of the central Dark Sky Community earlier this year. Idaho's night sky. The IDA deﬁnes a Dark Sky Reserve as having a "'dark core' zone surrounded

by a populated where policy controls are enacted to protectinthe of the cannot core." “The importanceperiphery of today’s achievement to the dark-skies movement thedarkness United States Idaho Gets Official Recognition for Its Stellar Night Sky The GETTY Reserve's / ALAN V. YOUNGdesignation comes after the central Idahoan town of Ketchum was designated a be understated,” IDA Executive Director J. Scott Feierabend said in a press statement. “Given The third-largest dark sky reserve in the world (out of 12), the Reserve stretches from Dark Sky Community earlier this year. the complexity of International Dark Sky Reserve nominations and the rigor of the protections Ketchum/Sun Valley to the small townIdaho, of Stanley, lands(3,668 in Blaine, Custer, In the Sawtooth of central 1,416 square miles square kilometers) of Mountains including  and Elmore that IDA requires for this honor, this is certainly a watershed moment in the history of American Counties and the Sawtooth Nationalfirst Recreation Area.Dark movement “The has importance of today’s achievement to the dark-skies in the United States cannot land been named the country's International Sky Reserve by the International conservation.” be understated,” IDA Executive J. Scott Feierabend saidagainst in a press statement. “Given Dark-Sky Association (IDA), the Director leading organization that fights the light pollution that “This is the culmination of a lot of work, important policy decisions and commitment by so many the complexity International Sky Reserve nominations and the rigor of the protections slowly swallowsofour view of theDark universe. http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/environment/a14500212/dark-sky-idaho/ 1/5 to manage our light pollution,” said Nina Jonas, mayor of Ketchum. “We’re pleased what this that IDA requires for this honor, this is certainly a watershed moment in the history of American says about the commitment our communities have shown to protecting our environment and ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW conservation.” spectacular window to the universe.” 1/16/2018

http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/environment/a14500212/dark-sky-idaho/

The Gold-Tier the highest the IDA canexperience, award, signifies the quality of the by central Artificial light atdesignation, night is already a common human one that is increasing a rate of Idaho's night sky. The IDA defines a Dark Sky Reserve as having a "'dark core' zone surrounded 2.2 percent per year. The IDA works to highlight the advantages of responsible lighting polices

1/16/2018 by a populated periphery where through promoting dark spaces.

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Idaho controls Gets Ofﬁcial Recognition for Its Stellar Sky the darkness of the core." policy are enacted to Night protect

The Reserve's designation comes after the central Idahoan town of Ketchum was designated a

 Source: Dark SkyIDA Community earlier this year.

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“The importance of today’s achievement to the dark-skies movement in the United States cannot Idaho Gets Official Recognition for Its Stellar Night be understated,” IDA Executive Director J. Scott Feierabend said in a press statement. “Given Sky the complexity of International Dark Sky Reserve nominations and the rigor of the protections ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

If you want to escape light pollution, central Idaho has nothing but stars.

that IDA requires for this honor, is MAIN certainly a watershed moment in83702 the history STRATEGIES360.COM of American THE VELTEX BUILDING, 420this WEST STREET, SUITE 205 | BOISE, IDAHO

conservation.” By David Grossman Dec 26, 2017

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Idaho gets nation's ﬁrst Dark Sky Reserve By: Melissa Luck (https://www.kxly.com/meet-the-team/melissa-luck/136593699)

 (mailto:melissal@kxly.com) Posted: Dec 22, 2017 12:38 PM PST

Updated: Dec 22, 2017 12:38 PM PST

Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve. Courtesy: darksky.org Skies over a large swath of central Idaho will stay dark, formally designated as the nation's rst Dark Sky Reserve. The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is one of just 12 worldwide. The area spans 1,400 square miles from Ketchum to Stanley and is the third largest reserve in the world. “The importance of today’s achievement to the dark-skies movement in the United States cannot be understated,” IDA Executive Director J. Scott Feierabend said. “Given the complexity of International Dark Sky Reserve nominations and the rigor of the protections that IDA requires for this honor, this is certainly a watershed moment in the history of American conservation.” Dark sky reserves aim to minimize the impact of arti cial light. Communities work together to preserve the natural darkness that can help nature and animals thrive. In the case of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, the cities of Ketchum, Sun Valley and Stanley worked alongside surrounding counties and the Idaho Conservation League to create the reserve. You can read more about the reserve here.