Coconino County Celebrates Flagstaff’s International Dark Sky City of the Year Recognition
About 80% of Americans can no longer see the Milky Way from where they live.
Coconino County is celebrating the recognition of the City of Flagstaff as International Dark Sky City of the Year, an honor that reflects decades of community leadership, policy involvement and resident participation in protecting Northern Arizona's night sky.
The Coconino County Board of Supervisors formally recognized the award during a recent meeting, joined by members of the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition, community advocates and county staff who have helped advance dark sky protections over multiple generations.
“This recognition belongs to our entire community,” said Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition Executive Director Danielle Adams, Ph.D. “For more than 50 years, residents and leaders of Coconino County have made a conscious decision to protect the night sky, understanding that dark skies improve our quality of life, our environment and our sense of place in Northern Arizona.
Flagstaff became the world's first International Dark Sky City in 2001.
Today, Coconino County and Flagstaff lighting standards exceed those set by DarkSky International, positioning the region as a global model.
About 80% of Americans can no longer see the Milky Way from where they live. In Flagstaff and across Coconino County, residents continue to experience this rare and precious connection to the night sky.
“Dark skies are a true community value in Coconino County,” said District 1 Supervisor and Board Chair Patrice Horstman. “They are essential not only for astronomy and scientific research, but for public enjoyment, cultural identity, environmental stewardship and economic opportunities, including astrotourism.
As the 25th anniversary of Flagstaff's international designation approaches, Coconino County will continue to work with community partners to expand dark sky awareness and protections throughout the region. FBN
Thanks to photo: Coconino County is joining the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition in celebrating Flagstaff's latest dark-sky honor.
