New Dark Sky Advocates In the Columbia River Gorge

A new group of dark sky lovers is protecting the night in the Columbia River Gorge. Appropriately named DarkSkyGorge (DSG), this group began this past February with two members—Mike Hendricks of Hood River and Michael McKeag of Mosier—and now has almost 80 members. Many of the new members joined after hearing from friends.

Even though the group is new, DarkSkyGorge is working hard on two important fronts.  First, a new bridge is being designed to cross the Columbia River from Hood River to White Salmon. DSG is urging the Bridge Commission and its Aesthetic Committee to keep any bridge lighting within dark sky principles.  An important design document will appear this summer, but it’s encouraging that dark sky language has already appeared on official bridge materials and in a public forum.

DarkSkyGorge’s second activity involves the city of Hood River, beginning a year-long update of its city development codes.  The city planning department recognizes that the current codes say very little about outdoor lighting, and they  – along with some elected Hood River officials – are inviting DSG to participate in the code review and to offer suggestions.  Thanks to the Dark Sky advocates in Sisters, who provide a powerful model and motivator,

It’s early on each of these fronts, but DarkSkyGorge is staying in touch with the decision-makers on each project and actively monitoring the next steps. If you would like to join their efforts—or perhaps start a local group in your area—contact them at DarkSkyGorge@gmail.com.

Mike Hendricks, Hood River

Michael McKeag, Mosier