WHAT’S AN URBAN NIGHT SKY PLACE?

Determined by the International Dark Sky Places Program (IDSP), the designation preserves and protects dark sites – even those around urban areas – through responsible lighting policies and public engagement. 

The IDSP outlines a rigorous set of guidelines to ensure that each certified place participates in actions and stewardship that improve the quality of the nightscape environment. Red Rock Canyon will be required to demonstrate its eligibility by providing a lighting management plan and robust series of public outreach strategies.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR RED ROCK?

If achieved, this distinction would help reduce the impacts of light pollution, which disrupts wildlife and obscures our view of the night sky. Additionally, Dark Sky Places benefit from increased visitation and local economic activity in the communities in which they are located. We have an enormous opportunity to capitalize on public interest, enroll support from surrounding neighborhoods, enhance the economic outlook of Nevada, while protecting and conserving our public lands.

Protecting Red Rock’s Dark Sky on Vegas PBS

We look at what it takes to make Red Rock Canyon an Urban Night Sky Place, with the help of Save Red Rock and Brett Torino Foundation.