The Hill Country Alliance (HCA) recently announced the launch of its first-ever Night Sky Preservation Fund, now accepting applications from local organizations seeking financial support for night sky conservation projects.
The fund aims to assist in reducing light pollution across the Texas Hill Country, helping to improve outdoor lighting and decrease energy waste.
Made possible by a donation from the Coypu Foundation, the fund offers up to $5,000 in reimbursement to eligible applicants, including nonprofit organizations, local government entities, small businesses, and sole proprietorships.
The funds can be used for a variety of night sky preservation efforts, such as applying for International Dark Sky Place certification, retrofitting lighting systems, and providing education and outreach resources.
Dawn Davies, HCA’s Night Sky Program Manager, said she was thrilled to offer the funding for night sky preservation.
“This is the first opportunity in the region for local groups to receive financial help for lighting improvements, and we hope it will encourage broader awareness of the need for such efforts,” she said.
Applicants must serve one or more of the 22 counties in the Hill Country region, including Bandera.The s submission deadline is October 31.
The announcement comes during Hill Country Night Sky Month, a celebration of the area’s star-filled skies.
HCA is hosting a virtual information session on October 8 to provide details on the fund and its application process.
For more information, visit hillcountryalliance. org/ nightskyfund.
