Sisters, Oregon Takes the Lead in Dark Sky Preservation
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The High Desert region in Central Oregon is renowned for its exceptionally dark night skies, critical for both wildlife and human well-being. In a push to combat increasing light pollution, the City of Sisters is leading efforts to safeguard these celestial treasures.
At a recent event titled “Natural History Pub – How Sisters is Protecting Central Oregon’s Dark Skies,” held at McMenamins in Bend, community members celebrated Sisters’ designation as a Dark Sky International community, thanks to a newly passed outdoor lighting ordinance. Hosted by the High Desert Museum, the evening highlighted the splendor of the planets, stars, and galaxies visible from this protected area.
Dark Skies Board Member Christopher Hill emphasized that Sisters’ elevation and low humidity contribute to its clear skies, allowing residents and visitors to marvel at the Milky Way and other celestial bodies more visibly than in larger urban areas like Portland and Eugene. Smaller communities, such as Sisters, generate a significantly smaller light dome, enhancing their stargazing potential.
As Sisters embarks on a five-year initiative to ensure all outdoor lighting adheres to Dark Sky standards, the city exemplifies how communities can collaborate to preserve the beauty of the night sky. This endeavor not only protects nocturnal wildlife but also enriches the human experience, fostering a deeper connection with the universe.
For more information on Sisters’ Dark Sky designation and details about upcoming stargazing events, residents can visit the city’s official website or check Dark Sky International. Sisters aims to inspire other communities to prioritize dark sky preservation, ensuring the stars remain visible for generations to come.
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