Light pollution is the one pollution that costs less to solve than it does to continue polluting. It also represents a lot of wasted energy and has potential negative health effects. Plus, the lights of the city hide the wonders of the night sky from us. Clint Smith reacquaints us with what we’re missing and tells the story of how the Wet Mountain Valley (Westcliffe and Silver Cliff, CO) became the first International Dark Skies Community in Colorado. One accomplished amateur astronomer started crying when he experienced the night sky in this valley.
Clint explains light pollution and what communities around the world are doing about it. He and other volunteers with Dark Skies of the Wet Mountain Valley hold star parties throughout every summer.
This program was recorded at the September 27, 2019 luncheon meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.
Pikes Peak Environmental Forum presenting sponsors are Becky Elder the Gardener and Peak Radar.
LINKS:
Clint's Powerpoint Slides
Smokey Jack Observatory
Dark Skies of the Wet Mountain Valley
International Dark Skies Association
Sunday Today feature (video)
Where Are the Stars? See How Light Pollution Affects Night Skies (video)
SPONSORS:
UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:
Green Drinks Thursday, October 24, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Westside Community Center1628 W Bijou St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Get a garden tour. Refreshments provided $5 donation requested
Pikes Peak Environmental ForumThe Dark Side of Renewable EnergyOctober 25, 2019 Noon to 2 pmMargarita at Pine Creek 7350 Pine Creek Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Event is free; you buy your lunch RSVP here; very important
The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.
Green Cities Coalition
Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future
Pikes Peak Environmental Forum
Pikes Peak Library District Green Team
Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club
Pikes Peak Permaculture
Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:
