An estimated 80% of Americans can no longer see the Milky Way from where they live.
The Coconino County Board of Supervisors formally recognized the award during a recent meeting, joined by members of the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition, community advocates and county staff who have helped advance dark sky protections across multiple generations.
“This recognition belongs to our entire community,” said Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition Executive Director Danielle Adams, Ph.D. “For more than 50 years, Coconino County residents and leaders have made a conscious decision to protect the night sky, understanding that dark skies enhance our quality of life, our environment and our sense of place in Northern Arizona.”
Flagstaff became the world’s first International Dark Sky City in 2001, building on lighting protections first adopted by Flagstaff in 1958. Coconino County’s first comprehensive outdoor lighting code was adopted in 1973, and in 1989 the county created the world’s first lighting code to restrict both spectrum and lighting output, followed shortly by Flagstaff.
Today, Coconino County and Flagstaff’s lighting standards exceed those set by DarkSky International, positioning the region as a global model.
An estimated 80% of Americans can no longer see the Milky Way from where they live. In Flagstaff and across Coconino County, residents continue to experience this rare and treasured connection to the night sky.
“Dark skies are a true community value in Coconino County,” said District 1 Supervisor and Board Chair Patrice Horstman. “They are essential not only for astronomy and scientific research, but for public enjoyment, cultural identity, environmental stewardship and economic opportunity, including astrotourism.”
As the 25th anniversary of Flagstaff’s international designation approaches, Coconino County will continue working with community partners to expand dark sky awareness and protections throughout the region. FBN
Courtesy Photo: Coconino County joins the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition in celebration of Flagstaff’s latest dark-sky honor.
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