Fellow AAC Members,

I am writing to inform you of a significant and promising opportunity to advance the cause of dark sky preservation within Alachua County.

Yesterday, September 9th, the Alachua County Environmental Protection Advisory Committee (EPAC) presented its draft work plan for 2025-2026. This committee advises the Alachua County Commission on environmental matters. Included in their draft was the following mission:

• "Encourage policy makers to implement Dark Sky regulations, promoting responsible outdoor lighting practices for new developments, businesses, and residences."

As a member of the public in attendance, I took the opportunity to propose an amendment. I am pleased to report the committee agreed to add the following draft language to this goal:

• "...and taking the necessary steps toward the goal of achieving International Dark Sky Preserve status for Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park."

While this is a major step forward, the work plan is not yet finalized. To that end, EPAC has invited me to present at their next meeting in early October on the topic of light pollution in our county and how we might approach county-level mitigation strategies.

This is an ideal moment for the Alachua Astronomy Club to contribute its collective expertise. I am creating this thread to formally request your collaboration. Any ideas regarding policy recommendations, examples from other counties, scientific data on local light pollution, or strategies for public engagement would be invaluable for both the upcoming presentation and our long-term goals.

Please share your thoughts and suggestions.

Thank you,

Jay Rosen