Light pollution in Carson Valley

EDITOR:

I spent 30 years living in Reno and have been in Carson Valley for a decade. Growth continues to take away the night sky. This issue came up with the Walmart permit and many skeptics rolled their eyes when the Walmart people said that all the light would be "contained" within the boundaries of the project.

Lighting technology has come a long way. I recall when the new freeway came through south Reno and there was much commentary on the new freeway lights. Yes, the lights are all directed down to the freeway.

As usual though, we continue to measure the impacts of growth project by project when the real impact, involves growth over time. When the impact is incremental and gradual, the degradation of the night sky slowly develops until the stars are gone. I travel the Great Basin frequently and always enjoy being out under the night skies which are so brilliant that flashlights aren't necessary.

In the January 2010 Smithsonian an ancient reference to light pollution "came to light" in an archeological excavation in England. A 14th century document stated, "Manor hath provided torches throughout the community for the convenience of all. However, all torches must be extinguished by curfew and not reignited until the following dusk so as not to obscure viewing of God's celestial firmament."

I think it is built into human nature to repeat the mistakes of history while concentrating on short term gains.