In recent years, the Dark Sky Movement has grown massively popular in the United States and globally. Due to urban and rural development and the intensity of LED lighting, it has become harder and harder for citizens to look up at the sky and see stars, which is why communities with dark sky ordinances like Pima County (where Saguaro Ranch is located) are becoming more and more desirable.
Recently, Saguaro National Park — just 13 miles from Saguaro Ranch — was named the newest Urban Night Sky Place by the International Dark Sky Association. This is exciting because it’s only the second national park to receive such a recognition. The International Dark Sky Association was started and is headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, which is called the “astronomy capital of the world” because many of the finest observatories in the world (including Mt. Lemmon, Mt. Graham, Kitt Peak, and the Steward Observatory) are here. Protecting our dark skies is clearly a source of local pride!
Here at Saguaro Ranch, proximity to nature is the name of the game, which is why over 80% of the 1200 acre property will remain completely untouched. The creators of Saguaro Ranch have done a lot to minimize light pollution, as well. Mike Conlin, a member of the review board at Saguaro Ranch, shared that, “we are considered an official dark sky community. This is thanks to our design review committee, which sets and enforces the guidelines for building a new home in Saguaro Ranch.”
He went on to share that, “A key part of this is outdoor lighting. You must have a plan for your exterior lighting before you’re allowed a permit to build a home. Essentially, all outdoor lighting must be pointed downward, for example, no cactus can be lit up, etc.”
The town of Marana, Arizona, also enforces dark sky guidelines. Arizona has long worked to create dark sky communities, and the city won’t approve a building permit without proof of compliance with the ordinance. “It makes a big difference,” Conlin said, “The canyon under a full moon is just beautiful.”
The Saguaro Ranch review board has done a lot to enhance residents’ enjoyment of the property, including the beautiful dark skies. It’s wonderful to see the broader community embracing the dark sky guidelines and taking on a national park mindset, because ultimately, everyone benefits!
