Goal is better views at night
Kendall County is in the running to become only the second in the nation declared a “Dark Sky County,” according to a commissioner pushing for the designation.
Communities seeking dark-sky status aim to reduce nighttime “light pollution” from buildings and infrastructure to make the sky, planets, stars and constellations easier to see.
Precinct 3 Commissioner Richard Chapman said a petition is being circulated requesting Dark Skies International label Kendall County as a Dark Skies County.
“The county is trying to become the first Dark Skies County in Texas; only one other county in the U.S. is currently certified as a Dark Skies County,” Chapman said.
He is asking for support not only from residents but also from businesses and local organizations including the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce.
Chapman is urging neighbors to circulate petitions and return them to County Engineer Mary Ellen Schulle at [email protected].
Chapman said he sees little downside to attaining the declaration, which would serve the area well in its efforts to retain some of its scenic flavor and enhance its status as a tourist destination.
“We all benefit, everybody continues to see the stars and the night sky,” Chapman said. “Birds and other animals are not confused in their migration patterns, either, which benefits nature.”
“We all benefit, everybody continues to see the stars and the night sky.”
— County Commissioner Richard Chapman According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, artificial lighting can attract large numbers of night-migrating birds from more than 3 miles away. Once drawn in, birds often circle the illuminated area, wasting critical energy needed for migration and increasing their risk of collisions with buildings and other structures.
Making the switch to Dark Sky-compliant may be as easy as changing a light bulb.
“It costs very little to be compliant. Even if you retrofit, you don’t have to spend a lot of money,” Chapman said. “In some cases, it may be as simple as going from a 5,000 Kelvin bulb to a 3,000 Kelvin bulb.”
He added, “We’re not asking people to spend thousands of dollars. There are simpler fixes out there.”
Some firms are making a conscious effort to become more in line with local Dark Skies resolutions, including one of Texas’ most famous road stops.
“Buc-ee’s is going to be meeting all the Dark Sky initiatives,” the commissioner said. “They will use their Boerne location as a model store for moving into Colorado,” home to many Dark Sky communities.
The petition reads, in part: “We, the undersigned residents, property owners, business owners, and supporters of Kendall County, Texas, respectfully express our strong support for Kendall County’s initiative to become an International Dark Sky Community as recognized by Dark Sky International.
“Kendall County’s dark night skies are a defining feature of our community and a vital natural resource. Responsible outdoor lighting protects public safety, preserves wildlife habitat, supports military training operations, conserves energy, and enhances the health, well-being, and quality of life of residents and visitors alike.
“International Dark Sky Community designation will formally recognize these efforts and reinforce Kendall County’s commitment to environmental stewardship, rural character and sustainable growth.”
