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 501c3 conservation organization 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 began as 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. The goal of that collaboration starting in 2021, was to get accredited as an International Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International. This page was created to disseminate information about protecting dark skies, and how you and your community can do your part. Now operating as a stand-alone 501c3 organization with an independent board of directors, Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Initiative has redoubled its efforts. That is because in the 3 years covering 2021-2024, the amount of light pollution in the Kickapoo Valley increased beyond levels permitted to be a Dark Sky Park with the Dark-Sky International. The KVDSI Board and members are committed to the advocacy and education work needed to make the skies in the Kickapoo Valley dark again. We encourage you to go to them to learn more today! Kickapoo Valley Reserve remains a strong supporter of KVDSI vision and a key partner in the future goal of establishing an International Dark Park here in the Kickapoo Valley. The public land along the Kickapoo River in Vernon County has been known for years for fantastic night sky viewing. Please join KVDSI in the conservation efforts to preserve and protect these dark skies. Reach out to Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Initiative 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. Request to be on the KVR mailing list. |