Congratulations to Arches National Park for receiving its Dark Sky Park Recognition! The City will be submitting its application in November. The application requires business and citizen support, so please send letters to crystalguinevere73@gmail.com or drop them off at the Sustainability Office – City Hall. Dark Sky designations is aimed at reducing bright white lights that affect nocturnal animals’ ability to survive and human health specifically circadian patterns. Circadian disruptions regulate alertness, hormonal balance, digestion and sleep. Two recent studies showed that circadian disruptions are linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and breast cancer.

Thanks to everyone that attended the Dark Sky Celebration and educational events. Congratulations to Angie Settle that won a free tour with the new Moab Astronomy Tour Company at the Moab Science Fair. One simple step to take is changing out white porch lights with amber bulbs. The warm colored nights will reduce electricity use and lower negative environmental impacts. The City will be giving away FREE bulbs as part of Climate Week events and the Community Conservation Challenge. The City will be supplying Indoor Conservation Kit to help save on your electricity and water bill. The kits contain an LED and dark sky compliant amber bulb; sink aerator, outlet plug, and water efficient shower head or toilet tank bag. Climate change presents far-reaching, lasting challenges to Utah’s economy and quality of life, and presents an unprecedented opportunity for Utah to dramatically reduce pollution, bolster the local economy and enhance our state’s identity as an innovative 21st century leader. That is why the City of Moab and many partners are sponsoring Utah Climate Week 2019, Sept 29 – Oct 5, a platform for organizations and leaders to share concerns and a positive vision for the future. Businesses, governments, academic institutions, arts and music organizations, and NGOs are all invited to participate in the iconic week – please send your events to post @ rrusso@moabcity.org.

Part of the celebration will be the screening of two films:
Paris to Pittsburgh
October 5, 7 pm - Youth Garden Youth Garden
Paris to Pittsburgh is a 2018 documentary film directed by and documentarian Michael Bonfiglio that looks at states, businesses and citizens taking action and delve into the social and economic impacts of climate change-fueled disasters coast to coast including America’s heartland. The film features stories of recovery and resiliency. The film also examines the changes Pittsburgh has made towards energy efficiency. 77 minutes

As the seasons change, it’s a great time to adjust to different light and water patterns. Remember now is the time to reduce water use in your yard as you harvest vegetables from your garden or reduce mowing. If you have a leaky hose or nozzle, a few Outdoor Conservation Kit will be available at the events listed above too.