Analyzing the Importance of Night Sky Quality to Park Visitors
Project ID: P12AC15010
Federal Agency: National Park Service
Partner Institution: University of Vermont and State Agriculture College
Fiscal Year: 2012
Initial Funding: $55,001
Total Funding: $55,001
Project Type: Research
Project Disciplines: Social
National Park: National Projects
Principal Investigator: Manning, Robert
Agreement Technical Representative: Moore, Chadwick
Abstract: A shift is taking place in American’s attitude toward night skies. Concern for the preservation of dark skies and the problem of light pollution is rising in public consciousness. This shifting value is evidenced in national parks by sharply increasing attendance at stargazing programs. However, it is important to establish indicators and standards for a high quality nighttime experience in parks. The focus of this study is to assess the importance of night skies and related resources to visitors and to support the establishment of visitor-based indicators and standards of quality for night skies. This information will help the NPS guide night sky restoration efforts, where to focus interpretation and education efforts, and generally inform the many ongoing public initiatives to “save the night.” The project will draw upon NPS research on night sky quality and concurrent visitor survey efforts conducted by the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson University.
Deliverables: