Thanks to the work of the Southampton Town Dark Skies Committee, each year the Town recognizes Dark Skies Week. However, each year, that week changes based on the cycle of the moon. In order to consistently draw attention to the importance of Dark Skies advocacy and legislation, the Town Board passed a resolution on March 26th to designate each month of April as “Dark Skies Month” from 2024 onward, creating an annual recognition to note the importance of Dark Skies regulations and promote public understanding about our natural resources.
Light pollution is often associated with overdevelopment and disrupts enjoyment of the night sky. However, artificial light has negative impacts on many creatures, including amphibians, birds, mammals, insects, and plants. Such light can also affect cycles of migration, reproduction, nourishment of nocturnal wildlife.
In order to continue to protect Southampton’s ecological and natural resources, as well as the celestial features of the night sky for future generations, this legislation will enable the Town Board and Dark Skies Committee to bring awareness every April on the importance of artificial light reduction. Councilmember Iasilli stated, “One of my top priorities is the protection of wildlife. Dark Skies legislation protects nocturnal wildlife and reinforces the conservation of energy resources, which is good for ratepayers and the natural environment.”
On Friday, April 12th at 7 PM the Town Dark Skies Committee will be hosting an event at the Southampton High School Planetarium. Astronomy teacher John Walsh will lead a discussion exploring nighttime wonders.
https://www.southamptontownny.gov/444/Dark-Skies-Committee
