Editor’s Notes: Having met recently in person, the brief Editorial Team mapped out ways to listen to Members, plan forums for discussions of issues, learn together about matters that affect us individually and corporately, and promote awareness and involvement. In sum, we are volunteers eager to serve our community helpfully. We believe not only that our Ownership is Responsibility, but also that we claim Authority to be heard and to have voice.
Below, we share RdPPOA Board approved support for our Association’s Covenant on light pollution and the dark sky initiatives that Sandoval County has put in place. As surrounding communities grow, our protections have never been more greatly needed.
Our next edition will feature the experience of a couple who are building their home here. Their perspective is a complement to those who have undeveloped property, and those who bought or built recently or long ago.
Finally, we welcome comments and we are eager to know what you’re thinking that pertains to our slice of Ranchos: briefeditor@ranchosdeplacitas.org
This edition of the brief summarizes Sandoval Country rules, recommendations from the International Dark Sky Association, county programs, and tips for protecting our dark skies.
Sandoval County, New Mexico has a number of rules in place to protect its dark skies. These rules are designed to reduce light pollution, which is the brightening of the night sky caused by artificial light. Light pollution can make it difficult to see stars and other celestial objects, and it can also have negative impacts on wildlife and the environment.
Some of the rules in Sandoval County’s dark skies ordinance include:
- All outdoor lighting fixtures must be directed downward and shielded to prevent light from spilling into the sky.
- No flashing or rotating lights are allowed.
- High-pressure sodium lights are not allowed.
All new outdoor lighting fixtures must meet the International Dark Sky Association’s (IDA) Outdoor Lighting Guide.
The IDA suggests these Core Lighting Principles:
- Useful: Only add light if it has a clear, practical purpose.
- Targeted: Direct fixtures straight down so light stays only where needed.
- Low-level: Keep bulbs no brighter than necessary for the task.
- Controlled: Use timers, motion sensors, or dimmers so lights are only on when useful.
- Warm: Choose warm-color lights (under 3000K correlated color temperature) to limit harsh blue light.
Learn more from the IDA Dark Sky Friendly Home Lighting Program or visit DarkSky.org for more information.The county also has a number of programs in place to educate residents about light pollution and the importance of protecting dark skies. These programs include:
- A dark skies website with information about the county’s dark skies ordinance and how residents can help protect the night sky.
- A dark skies educational program for schools and community groups.
- A dark skies festival that is held each year.
Sandoval County is committed to protecting its dark skies for future generations. By following the rules in the dark skies ordinance and participating in the county’s educational programs, residents can help to ensure that the county’s night sky remains dark and beautiful.Here are some additional tips for protecting dark skies:
- Turn off lights when you don’t need them.
- Use motion-sensor lights instead of always-on lights.
- Choose full-spectrum bulbs, which emit a wider range of light wavelengths that are more natural to the night sky.
- Plant trees and shrubs around your home to help block light pollution. Get involved in your community’s dark skies efforts.
Our Ranchos de Placitas Property Owners Association Board of Directors suggests reviewing these rules, recommendations, and tips, and making appropriate changes necessary to keep our dark skies dark.
Together, we make a difference in protecting our dark skies.