Lincoln City Hopes to Become First on Oregon Coast Designated Dark Sky Community

Published 06/20/25 at 6:35 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Lincoln City, Oregon) - In case you have not yet heard, one central Oregon coast town has begun a quest for certification as a Dark Sky Community. Lincoln City is embarking on this official recognition, a designation that underscores its commitment to reducing light pollution and preserving the natural night sky. (Siletz Bay at night / Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

The effort, led by Explore Lincoln City, aims to highlight the environmental, economic, and community benefits of responsible outdoor lighting. If successful, the certification would support wildlife, enhance human health, and protect the region's treasured coastal landscapes.

To launch the process, a Dark Skies Town Hall is scheduled for Thursday, June 26, at 6 p.m. at Lincoln City Outlets (Suite 306, near Carter’s and Salt). Residents, business owners, city staff, and community partners – as well as visitors - are encouraged to attend and learn more about the certification journey.

"Reducing light pollution doesn't mean eliminating lighting," said a spokesperson for Explore Lincoln City. "It means using it wisely - to maintain public safety while preserving our access to star-filled skies."

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While some of its beaches are lit up by various hotel properties, the area does have renowned unlit sandy stretches that are perfect for catching sight of glowing sand – the bioluminescence given off certain types of phytoplankton. It sometimes causes a faint glow or sparkling action on waves around the Oregon coast.

Consultant Dawn Nilson, who has advised other Oregon communities on dark sky preservation, will give a presentation outlining the certification process and the opportunities it offers for tourism, energy savings, and community wellness. Representatives from the Seven Capes Bird Alliance and the Cascade Head Biosphere Reserve will also speak on how artificial lighting affects their environmental work.

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The city looks at this initiative as a multi-phase project that depends on widespread public involvement. Volunteers will be needed at various stages, from spreading awareness to helping implement lighting practices that meet International Dark-Sky Association standards.

Explore Lincoln City emphasized the broader significance of the campaign, stating, “Since the invention of electric streetlights, we’ve been losing the natural darkness of night - literally at the speed of light. Today, 80% of Americans and nearly a third of all people worldwide can no longer see the Milky Way from home.”

Dark skies have far-reaching impacts: studies show they’re vital for wildlife behavior, circadian rhythms, and mental health. Culturally, they offer inspiration, storytelling, and a deeper sense of place in the universe.

For more information or to get involved, community members are encouraged to attend the June 26 Town Hall or contact Explore Lincoln City directly.

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