Nevada begins starry skies certification program

The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of … Nevada.

That’s right. The Silver State features some of the darkest places in the world where millions of stars are visible.

While it’s said the lights in downtown Las Vegas are so bright you can read a newspaper, at Massacre Rim in far northern Washoe County, the stars are so bright they can cast a shadow

The Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation announced the Nevada Starry Skies Certification Program, an initiative dedicated to promoting and preserving dark skies across Nevada.

Nevada is home to some of the best stargazing spots in the world, offering clear night skies free from light pollution.

“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, said Outdoor Recreation Administrator Denies Beronio. “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.”

The Nevada Starry Skies Certification Program tackles the challenges posed by light pollution, which impacts wildlife such as migratory birds and insects, and disturbs natural ecosystems. By preserving dark skies, the program aims to support the survival of these species, offer deeper connections to the cosmos, and provide an unobstructed glimpse into our night sky.

Consistent 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. By embracing responsible lighting, we can ensure the preservation of Nevada’s dark skies, which are vital for stargazing, wildlife, and the state's outdoor recreation economy.

Initiated in 2021 with the passing of Senate Bill 52, the program has grown in recognition of the increasing importance of dark skies as a vital environmental resource. With the rise of artificial light, protecting the night sky has become critical for both ecological balance and human health. The program establishes a state-level initiative for designating dark sky places in Nevada, complementing DarkSky International.

The Nevada Starry Skies Certification Program will collaborate with schools, homeowners' associations, parks, conservation areas, open spaces, tribal governments, businesses, municipalities, and unincorporated communities. The program will focus on implementing practical management plans to protect the night sky and mitigate light pollution. Certification of dark sky places in Nevada under the program aims to attract tourists and visitors to rural communities near the state's dark sky assets, generating increased economic activity for surrounding areas and supporting small businesses.

Education remains a key focus of the Nevada Starry Skies Certification Program. As part of the expansion, the program will offer more opportunities to raise awareness about the impacts of light pollution and engage communities across Nevada in the effort to protect our dark skies.