As part of International Dark Sky Week, the Wenatchee Valley Astronomy Club and the Wenatchee River Institute are hosting a special event on April 19th from 3:30 to 10:00 pm This is a chance to explore an often-misunderstood topic, how artificial light at night affects our communities, our health, and the natural resources we depend on. This event has many different activities to include kids activities, astronomy trivia, a community survey, a telescope viewing, and two separate presentations on light pollution and our community by local experts in their field. More info can be found here. Presentations:
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Title: Restoring the Night Sky: A Win-Win-Win for Everyone
Dr. White will explain how thoughtful outdoor lighting can improve safety, support human and wildlife well-being, reduce wasted energy, and reconnect us with the night sky. This interactive session will help you understand practical lighting choices that meet real needs.
Presenter: Dr. James White, Principal Energy Efficiency Engineer, Chelan County PUD
Time: 7:00-8:00 pm
Title: Effect of Artificial Light at Night on Juvenile Salmon
Roger Tabor will share research on how lighting influences salmon behavior, migration, and vulnerability to predators. He will highlight findings from the Seattle area and discuss ongoing efforts to reduce impacts on fish populations.
Presenter: Roger Tabor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (retired), Fish Biologist with 35 years of experience
Can’t make it in person? Join us on YouTube at 3:30pm Pacific Time for “Restoring the Night Sky: A Win-Win for Everyone” and at 7:00pm for “Effect of Artificial Light at Night on Juvenile Salmon”!