The Nevada Department of Outdoor Recreation (NDOR) has launched the Nevada Starry Skies Certification Program, addressing the challenges posed by light pollution. This initiative aims to preserve dark skies to support wildlife, offer deeper connections to the cosmos, and provide an unobstructed view of the night sky.
“We’re excited to launch the Nevada Starry Skies Certification Program, which focuses on protecting the incredible night skies that make our state so special. By reducing light pollution and encouraging responsible lighting, we’re taking important steps to preserve this natural wonder for current and future generations. This program will help ensure that Nevadans can continue to enjoy the beauty and clarity of our night skies for years to come,” said Denise Beronio, NDOR Administrator.
In line with NDOR’s mission to enhance outdoor recreation experiences and protect Nevada’s natural beauty, adopting energy-efficient, fully shielded outdoor lighting can reduce light pollution while conserving energy and lowering carbon emissions. Responsible lighting is seen as crucial for preserving Nevada’s dark skies, vital for stargazing, wildlife, and the state’s outdoor recreation economy.
The program began in 2021 with Senate Bill 52 and has grown in recognition of dark skies as a critical environmental resource. With increasing artificial light usage, protecting the night sky is now essential for ecological balance and human health. The initiative establishes a state-level effort to designate dark sky places in Nevada, complementing DarkSky International.
The certification program will work with various groups including schools, homeowners’ associations, parks, conservation areas, tribal governments, businesses, municipalities, and unincorporated communities. It aims to implement management plans to protect the night sky and reduce light pollution. Certified dark sky places are expected to attract tourists and visitors to rural communities near these assets, boosting economic activity in those areas.
Education is a key component of the program’s expansion. It will offer more opportunities to raise awareness about light pollution impacts and engage communities across Nevada in efforts to protect dark skies.
Interested parties are encouraged to submit complete management plans or policies as part of their application process. NDOR seeks collaboration with eligible groups for piloting this program in its first year. For more information or expressions of interest, contact nvstarryskies@ndor.nv.gov.
