Stephen Johnson/Courtesy photo
In Breckenridge and Frisco, community leaders are responding to a push from locals who want their towns to pursue DarkSky certification. This effort aims to cut down on light pollution, improving both the environment and human health.
Breckenridge is already on its way, planning to introduce new lighting policies this summer. Frisco is joining in, having recently confirmed its eligibility for the DarkSky International community application process.
In early August, Frisco received news that it could participate in a Colorado Dark Sky Certification program. This program emphasizes reducing light pollution, making night skies clearer. Breckenridge has already taken part in this effort.
Mark Laurin, a DarkSky Colorado mentor, will guide Frisco through the certification process. He explained at a January Town Council meeting that forming a steering committee will be a crucial step. This committee will gather information and work towards compliance with DarkSky guidelines.
The certification process mainly focuses on redirecting outdoor lighting downwards and using specific colors and brightness levels to minimize skyglow. Mayor Rick Ihnken noted that while many community members support this initiative, it will be important to engage nearby businesses as well. Laurin emphasized that communities certified as DarkSky often inspire surrounding areas to follow suit.
Frisco is looking to collaborate with local organizations, like the St. Anthony Summit Hospital and the school district, to help them understand how they can also reduce their light pollution.
While certain locations like Copper Mountain haven’t applied yet, they are open to exploring DarkSky certification. Breckenridge has already submitted its application and is now refining its plans based on feedback from DarkSky International.
Many people mistakenly believe that becoming a DarkSky community means turning off all lights at night. However, Assistant Community Development Director Julia Puester clarified that the goal is smarter lighting use, not total darkness. Starting in July, new regulations will require shield inserts for outdoor lights and set limits on bulb brightness, affecting both homes and businesses.
Council member Steve Gerard praised the town’s approach, particularly the option to retrofit existing fixtures instead of replacing them, which can save costs. Puester assured that the inserts are affordable, and the town will share information on where to get them. Enforcement will include a tiered fee structure for any violations.
Benefits of DarkSky Certification
DarkSky International operates in over 70 locations worldwide, including various communities in Colorado like Ridgway and Crestone. Their focus is to promote practices that support the health of both humans and wildlife. Research indicates that light pollution can interfere with natural sleep cycles, which is harmful to human health. It can also disrupt nocturnal creatures and their breeding patterns.
As these communities work towards certification, they not only improve their local environment but also contribute to a larger movement aimed at preserving the beauty of our night skies.
