It's Colorado Dark Sky Month!
We are celebrating Colorado’s starry skies for the month of June! Want to celebrate with us? Read more below to see how you can get involved.
What is Dark Sky Month?
In June 2021, a proclamation was signed declaring June as Colorado Dark Sky month. The Colorado community recognized the importance of our dark skies for their intrinsic natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and economic value. “With the State’s ever-growing population, the commitment to protecting and preserving our natural nights and landscapes from excessive light pollution and trespass is as important now as ever,” states the International Dark Sky Association.
Why is it Important to us?
From Colorado’s National Conservation Areas, visitors can witness some of the state’s darkest skies. In fact, Gunnison Gorge NCA is in the process of being certified as an “International Dark Sky Park.” This means “it’s a land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment.” This certification will ensure the night sky receives the same resource protection as other attributes in the NCA; ultimately community education, stewardship, and outreach efforts will be increased. To achieve the certification, we are helping the BLM with community outreach including night hikes, stargazing tours, interpretive materials, and more!
Photo by Robin Lewis at the Bobcat Trailhead in Gunnison Gorge NCA
How Can you get involved?
Submit a night sky photo
To help get Gunnison Gorge certified as a Dark Sky Park, we are doing a community call for photos. We’re looking for any photos that help showcase the starry skies of Gunnison Gorge. You don’t need to be a professional! Send in your shot to info@canyonsassociation.org - the winner will receive CCA swag!
Attend our Intro to Stargazing event
Discover the wonders of Gunnison Gorge NCA’s night sky during an evening under the stars on June 24th! Join Aaron Watson, Chair of the Colorado Chapter for the International Dark-Sky Association, for our Intro to Stargazing event. Sign up for the event here!