Debating a Dark Sky Preserve

Prince Edward County’s Committee of the Whole is recommending council approve a staff investigation that could lead to actions allowing parts of South Marysburgh and Athol wards to receive a Dark Sky Preserve designation. Steven Burr of the South Shore Initiative and Royal Astronomical Society of Canada made a detailed presentation to the committee Thursday. A Dark Sky Preserve is an area with a special commitment to preserving the night and to reducing or eliminating all forms of light pollution. Light pollution is the combined effects of glare, light trespass and sky glow which adversely affects flora and fauna as well as denying humanities cultural heritage, our access to the stars. Cheryl Anderson of the South Shore Initiative said a dark sky supports biodiversity of all kinds.