I live in Frederick County in the Gainesboro District.
I am a member of Shenandoah Astronomical Society. While I am not speaking as a representative of that organization, I am representing the 1000 or so local followers of our club activities. Clearly dark skies are imprtant to us. As such, artifical lighting has become an increasing hindrence to enjoying the night sky. This is being recognized all across the world. There is a movement to save our dark skies called Dark Sky International. I would strongly encourage you seek their guidance in adopting new lighting ordinances. Not only for the sake of enjoying the night sky, but also for the sake of wildlife. The importance of darkness to the wellbeing of wildlife is well known. With the proliferation of mega-stores, mega warehouses, and mega gas stations, the encroachment of artifical light from parking areas is having a devastating effect.
I support all activity to supress artifical lighting by reducing the candle power of required lighting, shielding light fixtures in all applications, and reducing the very requirement of artifical lighting in general. Creating artifical daylight is not needed to feel safe.
As a side note, many of the counties around Frederick County are establishing or have established Dark Sky Parks. The first step in developing such and environment is controlling artifical lighting. This ordinance amendment is a first step. I, and the 1000 or so residents that I know of, and I am certain there are many, many more, would welcome a Frederick County Dark Sky Park.
I live in Frederick County in the Gainesboro District.
I am a member of Shenandoah Astronomical Society. While I am not speaking as a representative of that organization, I am representing the 1000 or so local followers of our club activities. Clearly dark skies are imprtant to us. As such, artifical lighting has become an increasing hindrence to enjoying the night sky. This is being recognized all across the world. There is a movement to save our dark skies called Dark Sky International. I would strongly encourage you seek their guidance in adopting new lighting ordinances. Not only for the sake of enjoying the night sky, but also for the sake of wildlife. The importance of darkness to the wellbeing of wildlife is well known. With the proliferation of mega-stores, mega warehouses, and mega gas stations, the encroachment of artifical light from parking areas is having a devastating effect.
I support all activity to supress artifical lighting by reducing the candle power of required lighting, shielding light fixtures in all applications, and reducing the very requirement of artifical lighting in general. Creating artifical daylight is not needed to feel safe.
As a side note, many of the counties around Frederick County are establishing or have established Dark Sky Parks. The first step in developing such and environment is controlling artifical lighting. This ordinance amendment is a first step. I, and the 1000 or so residents that I know of, and I am certain there are many, many more, would welcome a Frederick County Dark Sky Park.
Thank you for your consideration.