SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 451
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 Senate of the State of Texas, 89th
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
from the Texas Senate.
Blanco
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President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on April 28, 2025.
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Secretary of the Senate
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Member, Texas Senate