Summary
During International Dark Sky Week, Central Oregon is actively promoting the importance of reducing light pollution to protect the night sky. Bend and Deschutes County have issued proclamations supporting this initiative, with the aim of turning Bend into a certified "Dark Sky community." While Bend’s city council is considering updates to lighting regulations, including the advocacy of responsible lighting principles, the efforts face some opposition over public safety concerns from rural residents. The Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory, a key player in this initiative, emphasizes the need for dark skies to facilitate stargazing and educational activities. Advocates, like DarkSky Oregon board member Cathie Flanigan, seek to educate the community about effective lighting practices that enhance safety without compromising visibility of the night sky.
