Dark Sky Certification
Preserving Our Night Skies.
The night sky and nocturnal ecosystem are naturally, culturally, and historically important resources that are worthy of conservation.
International Dark Sky Places certification is awarded to parks or cities that are dedicated to using light only when necessary to create an environment where people can feel safe in a public space at night. By using quality outdoor lighting and effective policies to reduce light pollution, we protect the nocturnal environment and provide a place that allows visitors to experience the night sky.
What does a Dark Sky Volunteer do?
Our team of volunteers will conduct a survey and inventory of lighting fixtures throughout the park. This will identify light fixtures that require replacement or modification. Volunteers will take light readings throughout the park at various times of the year to identify sources of ambient light pollution.
The goal is to achieve International Dark Sky Place certification.
To learn more about becoming a Dark Sky volunteer
1st
Review the full Dark Sky Volunteer Description
2nd
complete a Volunteer Registration Form and one of our Volunteer Coordinators will contact you to answer questions and get you into the program
3rd
Our Volunteer Coordinator will help you sign up as a Volunteer-in-Park (VIP) at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. If you are already a VIP, we will add this job to your existing VIP profile. If you are not a VIP, fill out the Volunteer Agreement Form
4th
A short training will be demonstrated on how to use the light measurement equipment before your first volunteer session. You will receive a parks pass and an orange Friends Volunteer vest