HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-02-26 Public Comment - A. Ready - Letter to the Editor about Dark Skies (published in Sept. 1 Bozeman Chronicle)From:Anne Ready
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Letter to the Editor about Dark Skies (published in Sept. 1 Bozeman Chronicle)
Date:Wednesday, September 2, 2026 9:37:30 AM
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Dear City Commissioners,
Thanks for all that you do to make our community better and safe! I am sharing my recentlypublished Letter to the Editor in the Bozeman Chronicle about the importance of reclaiming
and protecting our Dark Skies.
I'm trusting that the City of Bozeman can update their codes to work towards this awesomegoal.
Thanks again,
Anne Ready
Experiencing the awe and wonder of a dark sky filled with billions of sparkling stars
and the glowing milky way galaxy connects you to something magical! You not only
bask in the joy of witnessing an immense, expansive universe but you experience
long lasting health benefits. Experts are discovering that experiencing awe releases
dopamine into your brain which reduces stress, anxiety, enhances creativity and
improves your mood. The release of endorphins during moments of awe also boosts
your immune system, lowers blood pressure and reduces inflammation.
On the flip side - according to the AMA, exposure to nighttime light suppresses your
melatonin levels which in turn increases your risk of hormonally linked cancers, such
as breast and prostate cancers.
Not only does nighttime light negatively affect us but it also harms other creatures that
we share the planet with. Light at night disrupts the ability of bats and birds to hunt
and navigate. Artificial lights can disrupt birds’ ability to migrate at the best time of
year and cause them to miss ideal climate conditions for nesting, foraging, and other
behaviors. Lights during the night also decreases insect populations - an important
food source for birds and other creatures.
The good news is that we can bring back our dark skies - while saving money and
increasing safety - starting with some easy first steps: shield lights and point the light
downwards, opt for amber colored lights rather than harmful white/blue lights.
Studies have shown that having lights on all night does not increase safety. What
has been found to be effective is to put your lights on timers or motion sensors.
Let’s work to bring back awe and wonder in our own backyard, while improving the
health and well being of all of us, including the wildlife that shares our special place!
-- Anne ReadyGallatin Valley Earth Day chair406-595-5976www.gallatinvalleyearthday.org