City of Leavenworth recognizes International Dark Sky Week

LEAVENWORTH – The week of April 21–28 was proclaimed International Dark Sky Week for the City of Leavenworth by Mayor Carl Florea and the city council.

Mayor Florea read the proclamation during the April 9 city council meeting, which recognized the “aesthetic beauty and wonder” of the natural night sky, the rise of development and light pollution in the Wenatchee Valley, and the “scientifically-established economic and environmental consequences” of light pollution.

“Whereas, the experience of standing beneath a starry night sky inspires feelings of

wonder and awe, and encourages a growing interest in sustainability and nature, and

preserving the rich natural heritage and starry night skies of Leavenworth is important to

its citizens,” the proclamation read. 

The proclamation aligns with an annual global celebration created by the organization Dark Sky International, which advocates for the protection of the night sky from light pollution. The week is intended to spread awareness of the ecological and human health impacts of light pollution, advocate for dark sky conservation, implement responsible lighting practices, and encourage citizen research.

In the proclamation, the City of Leavenworth encourages residents to observe and ponder the week, enjoy the night sky, learn about light pollution and how to implement practices that protect the night sky, and participate in the area’s events and programs that celebrate and promote the protection of the night sky. 

The proclamation drew mixed reactions on social media, with criticism of the city’s own light pollution, particularly during the holidays, as well as support for the promotion of dark skies. During the council meeting, Paul Thomas of Wenatchee Valley Astronomy Club advocated for the proclamation.

“Let’s preserve this resource that connects us to stars, for ourselves, for future generations, and for the entirety of our valley, by celebrating International Dark Sky week, and observing a truly dark sky,” said Thomas.

The Wenatchee Valley Astronomy Club will be advocating through programs and events during International Dark Sky Week. On April 27, the club will have a booth with a solar telescope during the Earth Day Fair in Enchantment Park, which takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. That evening, the Wenatchee Valley Astronomy Club will host a Hatchery Star Party, located at the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, from 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The stargazing event is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted, with all proceeds going to Friends of the Hatchery for the installation of a Sky Quality Meter to quantify light pollution growth. 

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media