Introducing the International Dark Sky Association

Hi friends,

I just wanted to let you know that I made a donation recently as promised, to the International Dark Sky Association. This organization is educating people worldwide about the importance of dark skies. They say: “By providing leadership, tools, and resources for individuals, policymakers, and industry, we will reduce light pollution and promote responsible outdoor lighting that is beautiful, healthy, and functional. We will bring the issue of light pollution to diverse communities worldwide with the goal of creating access to information about the destructive impact of over-lighting and the benefits of responsible lighting.”

This donation was made possible because of everyone who came out to see the blue ghost fireflies in our Enchanted Forest here in western NC.

I just wanted to say I appreciate you and am glad you took the time to visit us here and learn about our special fireflies.

I chose to donate half of the proceeds for my tours to the International Dark Sky Association because for the past three years my husband and I have been dealing with issues surrounding LIGHT TRESPASS and LIGHT POLLUTION, directly impacting our special blue ghost firefly population.

We recognize the importance of darkness and want to educate others about why it matters. Fireflies, bats, moths, nocturnal animals, flowers, trees, shrubs…they all need darkness! These animals and plants have no voices so it’s up to us to speak for them. Every living thing on earth has evolved to have a cycle of light followed by a cycle of dark. It is true that Every Day Needs a Night! When animals –and humans–are exposed to constant nighttime artificial lighting, their circadian rhythm is negatively affected. The list of effects of light pollution is long. (Here are some courtesy of the International Dark Sky Association)

Thankfully reversing light pollution is easy– just turn off your outdoor lights! Or put them on motion sensors. We can all rethink our outdoor lighting and work together to make a difference.

You can learn more about the International Dark Sky Association and their important work here. Or, learn about what you can do to help the fireflies.

Thanks again for helping me to make a difference!