Submitted by Joanne Rodgers
Dante Hunter and Grace Jaklitsch of Bayside Astronomy gave an engaging and informative talk about the importance of preserving the night sky to the Bruce Peninsula Environment Group (BPEG) at their July meeting.
The Bruce Peninsula is rated as a Bortle 2 and in areas Bortle 1, this high rating is a rarity in southern Ontario, as light pollution continues to encroach in the region, with light pollution growing by 2 % every year, during 1992 to 2012, light emissions increased by 49%.
The aim of Bayside Astronomy is to allow the public free access to see the wonders of dark skies and educate them on helping to preserve the night skies.
The duo explained about the negative impacts of light pollution on plants, reptiles, insects, birds, and mammals including humans. They emphasized the need to use dark sky friendly lighting and to minimize the use of lights.
The group discussed strategies to encourage businesses and homeowners to select dark sky friendly lighting for their properties.
Bayside Astronomy will help property owners select appropriate lighting and will offer rebates of up to 50% for dark skies friendly fixtures. If you wish to learn more or check if your outdoor lighting is dark sky friendly please contact Bayside Astronomy at 416 837 2959.