The Dark is Good for You AND the Lake!<\/p>\n
While the most obvious reason to consider turning out the lights is to allow your cottage neighbours to enjoy the most natural environment possible, there are other reasons to consider shutting off the lights at night! \u00a0Most cottagers have spent an evening lying under the stars and catching a glimpse of the Milky Way. \u00a0<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
On a clear night, when you look South, back towards Gatineau and Ottawa, you can see the encroaching light pollution from the city… nearly 60 \u00a0Km away! \u00a0There are little steps we can all take to reduce our own little unnecessary bits of light and make it better for everyone!<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
There are risks to\u00a0wildlife including migratory birds, nocturnal animals, and our lake\u2019s ecosystem.\u00a0 Light pollution along the waterfront can increase the production of algae by preventing phytoplankton from migrating to the surface at night to feed on algae.<\/p>\n
Here are some great tips from the International Dark-Sky Association<\/a> and other sources to help reduce light pollution which consists of GLARE, SKY GLOW, <\/strong>light trespass (<\/strong>light falling where it is not intended) and CLUTTER (excessive groupings of lights):<\/p>\n Where can you get dark-sky friendly lighting?\u00a0 http:\/\/darksky.org\/fsa\/fsa-products\/<\/a>\u00a0 and http:\/\/www.homedepot.com\/b\/Lighting-Ceiling-Fans-Outdoor-Lighting\/Dark-Sky\/N-5yc1vZc7qvZ1z0u5mk<\/a><\/p>\n Want to learn more?<\/p>\n\n