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Keep It Dark

Starry night sky over a mountain landscape with city lights below.
Bridge against a starry night sky with visible Milky Way.

Protecting Truckee-Tahoe's Dark Skies

Most Americans can no longer see a truly dark night sky. In many places, artificial light has washed out the stars, obscured the Milky Way, and altered the natural rhythm of the night.

Here in Truckee-Tahoe, we're fortunate to experience something increasingly rare: dark skies. On clear nights, thousands of stars are visible overhead, wildlife moves through natural darkness, and residents and visitors can reconnect with a sky that has inspired generations.

Keep It Dark is a community initiative dedicated to protecting this valuable natural resource through education, stewardship, and simple actions that help preserve the night for future generations.

Why Dark Skies Matter

Dark skies are more than beautiful. They are an essential part of the natural environment and an important part of what makes Truckee-Tahoe special.

A Connection to Nature

Darkness is a natural resource. Just as we value clean air, clear water, and healthy forests, protecting the night sky helps preserve the character of our mountain communities and the landscapes that surround them.

Wildlife Depends on Darkness

Many species rely on natural darkness to navigate, hunt, migrate, and rest. Excessive artificial lighting can disrupt these behaviors and alter ecosystems. From bats and owls to deer and bears, wildlife benefits when nights remain naturally dark.

A Rich Cultural Legacy

For thousands of years, Indigenous peoples, including the Washoe Tribe, have observed the stars for storytelling, navigation, and cultural connection. Protecting dark skies helps preserve a relationship with the night that stretches far beyond our own time.

A More Sustainable Future

Poorly directed outdoor lighting wastes energy and contributes to light pollution. Small changes to how we light our homes, businesses, and public spaces can reduce energy use while improving visibility and protecting the night sky.

Curving road at night with car light trails under a starry sky.
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How You Can Help Keep It Dark

For Residents

  • Choose Warm-Colored Bulbs - Use outdoor lighting rated 2700K or lower. Warmer light creates less skyglow and is generally more comfortable at night.
  • Aim Light Downward - Install shielded fixtures that direct light where it's needed rather than into the sky.
  • Use Timers and Motion Sensors - Reduce unnecessary overnight lighting by using timers or motion-activated fixtures.
  • Turn Off Decorative Lighting - Landscape lighting, uplighting, and decorative string lights can often be switched off when not in use.

For Businesses

Businesses play an important role in protecting Truckee-Tahoe's dark skies.

Consider:

  • Using warm-temperature outdoor lighting
  • Shielding exterior fixtures
  • Reducing overnight lighting when properties are closed
  • Installing timers and motion sensors
  • Educating staff and guests about dark sky stewardship

Small improvements can reduce energy costs while helping preserve one of our region's most distinctive assets.

For Visitors

You can help protect dark skies during your stay by:

  • Turning off unnecessary outdoor lights at your lodging
  • Using flashlights responsibly
  • Respecting quiet nighttime environments
  • Following posted guidelines at stargazing locations
  • Leaving night viewing areas as you found them

Together, we can help ensure future visitors experience the same remarkable night skies.