Dark Sky Parks are locations known for outstanding views of the night sky. Partnership for Dark Sky Designation:
Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Initiative is a conservation initiative focused on providing education and resources for individuals, businesses, and communities to prevent light pollution and protect dark skies in the Kickapoo Valley, and beyond. The Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Initiative is a collaboration between Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park, and Mississippi Valley Conservancy to prevent light pollution and protect dark skies in and around a combined 13,300 acres along the Kickapoo River in Wisconsin's Vernon County. This page has been created to disseminate information about protecting dark skies, and how you and your community can do your part. Protection of dark skies with smart lighting results in cost savings for homeowners and communities, and it also offers health benefits to all who live in the area, including people and natural communities. In the last 3 years the amount of light pollution in the Kickapoo Valley has increased beyond admissible levels required to qualify as a Dark Sky Park with the International Dark-Sky Association (our original goal). Today, we are asking for help to reduce this light trespass by using appropriate outdoor lighting and encouraging our local communities and businesses to do the same. Together, we can protect pollinators, birds, plants, wildlife, and human health by reducing light pollution. Please like our page and consider your part in this community-wide conservation effort. The public land along the Kickapoo River in Vernon County has been known for years for fantastic night sky viewing. Please join in the conservation efforts to preserve and protect these dark skies. The Kickapoo Valley Reserve occasionally hosts stargazing workshops. Please consult the KVR calendar for upcoming events, or sign up for the monthly upcoming events email through kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us |