Cortez (CO) Journal (2 October 2017)

Proposed Hovenweep drilling criticized for harm to views, night sky

In 2014, Hovenweep was designated as an International Dark Sky Park because of its seclusion and absence of development nearby. The park offers night sky viewing activities for visitors, including the use of a telescope. It has protections that limit light pollution.

Encroachment of oil and gas development on parks and monuments with the “dark sky” status is becoming a concern, said Dr. John Barentine, program manager for the International Dark-Sky Association, based in Tuscon. No park has had its dark sky designation compromised by oil and gas development, but the issue is on the radar, he said.

“It’s a timely question. We are getting reports that more oil and gas development is a concern for dark sky parks,” Barentine said. “Changes at the Interior Department mean they are more friendly toward increasing drilling leases.”

Read more: ​https://the-journal.com/articles/68297