As a board member of Fountain Hills Dark Sky Association, I am submitting this letter as Part 5 in a seven-part community education series, which is required by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) for Fountain Hills to achieve the prestigious Dark Sky Community designation.

IDA is the recognized authority on light pollution. Founded in 1988, IDA is the first organization to call attention to the hazards of light pollution, and its accomplishments are extensive.

One of IDA’s programs focuses on working with communities to provide guidance for developing sky-friendly lighting ordinances and programs that educate the community about smart lighting practices. Communities meeting the requirements set forth by IDA that show support of sky-friendly lighting practices can apply for the prestigious designation of Dark Sky Community. Fountain Hills Dark Sky Association has undertaken the mission to work with the Town to achieve this designation for Fountain Hills.

IDA promotes one simple idea: light what you need, when you need it. IDA recognizes some light at night is necessary for safety and recreation, but they work with manufacturers, planners, legislators and citizens to provide energy efficient options that direct light where it is needed and not uselessly up into the sky.

IDA’s approach of public awareness and extensive partnership is improving nighttime lighting on six continents. Achievements include:

*Assistance with crafting ordinances.

*Recognition of Dark Sky Places, which often capitalize on sustainable tourism due to their protected starry night skies.

*The opening of an Office of Public Policy and Government Affairs in Washington, DC, to inform lawmakers and lobbyists on energy efficiency.

*Development of a Fixture Seal of Approval program offering a rating system to determine the sky friendliness of light fixtures.

More information is available at IDA’s website, darksky.org, or ours, fhdarksky.com.