89R25749 HMR-D
By: Troxclair H.R. No. 915
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, DarkSky Texas works to ensure the stars at night
glow "big and bright" all across our state; and
WHEREAS, The Texas chapter of DarkSky International, DarkSky
Texas encourages citizens and public officials to reduce light
pollution in urbanized areas and keep rural night skies naturally
dark; the group's volunteers raise awareness of the ways better
lighting practices can restore our view of the nighttime sky,
conserve energy, and improve the well-being of people and wildlife;
and
WHEREAS, DarkSky Texas educates residents about the effects
of outdoor lighting shining up toward the sky or onto properties
where it is not wanted; it addresses the economic cost of excess and
poorly aimed illumination, and it advocates for the elimination of
glare and the use of warm-hued lighting properly shielded in order
to enhance visibility by directing illumination only where it is
needed; moreover, it stresses the negative impact of outdoor
lighting that interferes with the scientific inquiry of
astronomers; and
WHEREAS, Through its efforts, DarkSky Texas supports
reduction of deaths among migrating birds, who play a vital role in
agriculture as pollinators and consumers of harmful insects; the
group is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge regarding the
importance of natural darkness for both flora and fauna, as well as
for the circadian rhythms of humans; and
WHEREAS, DarkSky Texas also promotes the opportunities
afforded by dark sky tourism, exemplified by the popular weekly
star parties conducted by the McDonald Observatory Visitors Center
near Fort Davis; the organization fosters appreciation for the many
communities that have begun to feature the beauty of their clear
nighttime views among their recreational assets; currently, more
than 20 sites in the state are designated International Dark Sky
Places; and
WHEREAS, The Lone Star State takes great pride in the
brilliance of its night skies, and DarkSky Texas has demonstrated a
steadfast commitment to preserving this magnificent heritage; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas
Legislature hereby recognize April 25, 2025, as Dark Sky Day and
commend DarkSky Texas for its important work; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the organization as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.