On the North Shore, the sky is dark, likely the darkest sky and the most stars you’ve ever seen. The sky is so dark on the shore because there are so few human-made outdoor lights, which contribute to light pollution. Grand Portage National Monument is taking proactive steps to protect the dark sky by working toward becoming an officially designated International Dark Sky Place. The process can take between one and three years to complete.

According to Steve Veit, supervisory park ranger at Grand Portage National Monument, the park is currently in the information-gathering phase of the certification process. This stage includes collecting night sky meter readings, conducting a lighting inventory, developing a lighting management plan, and engaging the public through education and outreach efforts.

As part of those outreach efforts, the monument recently hosted the University of Minnesota Duluth's Traveling Planetarium in Grand Portage. The event, held on May 16, was conducted in partnership with the Cook County Chapter of Starry Skies North (part of Dark Sky International) and the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

Related: Governor Walz designates April 13–20 as Dark Sky Week in Minnesota

Once the required information is collected, the park will submit a nomination package to Dark Sky International. The application includes sky quality measurements, lighting policies, management plans, and evidence of community support. After review by Dark Sky International staff and an expert committee, qualifying sites may receive formal designation as an International Dark Sky Place.

With the certification also comes ongoing responsibilities. Designated sites must maintain approved lighting policies, monitor night sky conditions, submit periodic reports, and continue public outreach efforts to support dark sky preservation.

Along the North Shore, dark skies are one of the region's natural resources. According to DarkSky International, protecting the night sky is about more than stargazing. Excessive artificial light at night can negatively affect wildlife, ecosystems, human health, and energy use, while also obscuring our view of the stars. Many migrating birds, pollinators, and other nocturnal species rely on natural darkness, making the reduction of light pollution an important conservation effort. By pursuing Dark Sky certification, Grand Portage National Monument is helping preserve the star-filled skies that connect people to nature while ensuring future generations can continue to experience the night sky much as it has appeared for centuries.

Those interested in learning more about the International Dark Sky Places Program can visit Dark Sky International's website at darksky.org, which provides information about certification requirements, responsible lighting practices, and dark sky conservation efforts around the world.