Golden Gate Canyon State Park recognized for its work to reduce light pollution

GOLDEN, Colo. (KRDO) -- Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced Golden Gate Canyon State Park has reached Urban Night Sky Place designation as part of its work to reduce metropolitan light pollution.

CPW says the designation is from DarkSky International and recognizes the park's efforts to help reduce light pollution for wildlife and habitat conservation. CPW says the park's staff has replaced or retrofitted almost 100 light fixtures and increased its educational programming. They also hold regular stargazing parties and work with local astronomy groups, according to officials.

“Golden Gate Canyon is Colorado’s first Urban Night Sky Place, and sites like these are integral to protecting nighttime environments that are so close to urban areas, while also educating visitors about the issue of light pollution and why dark skies are so important," Michael Rymer, DarkSky International community program manager, said in a press release. "The staff and volunteers at Golden Gate Canyon have done exceptional work, and we are encouraged to see further progress in and around the park in the future.” 

CPW says Golden Gate Canyon started its application for the designation in 2024. It is now the second state park to be recognized by DarkSky International, joining Jackson Lake State Park, which was recognized as an International Dark Sky Park in 2020.

CPW says this program was founded in 2001 and works to encourage parks and communities to use more environmentally friendly lighting. More information on the International Dark Sky Places Program is available on the DarkSky website.

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