In the Gallatin Valley, we are at risk of losing our night sky to increasing light pollution. It’s obvious to anyone driving around Bozeman at night. The good news is there are easy solutions; like installing a motion detector, changing an outdoor light fixture to be fully shielded, and using a warmer color temperature bulb. There’s also the easiest action of all by simply turning off a light when it’s not needed. Assess the lighting around your home or business: Is it needed? Does it point downward or upward? Is it amber or blue colored? Could you use a motion detector? Take concrete steps to reduce the light pollution from your property. Become an advocate for dark skies.
Sacajawea Audubon Society is also working to reduce light at the local policy level in Bozeman and Gallatin County. Bozeman’s Outdoor Lighting Code needs to be updated to be dark-sky friendly, and Gallatin County has stated a goal of developing a policy to protect the night sky, but has not initiated an effort to do so. Our Dark Skies Team will be advocating for these policy changes and we need your help! There are also opportunities to help educate the public and policymakers about the dangers of light pollution and the benefits of protecting the night sky. Please contact Bonnie Rice or Michael Smith to get involved.