Stargazers, rejoice! Watoga State Park is on its way to becoming an officially recognized Dark Sky Park. Watoga has long been known as one of the darkest and most light-pollution-free areas in Central Appalachia, providing spectacular views of clear night skies.
At 10,000 acres, Watoga will be West Virginia’s first Dark Sky Park. Expected to be included in the designation are Calvin Price State Forest, which adjoins Watoga to the south, and nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. Together, the three areas encompass 19,869 acres.
According to the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), a Dark Sky Park (DSP) is “a land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage and/or public enjoyment.”
As the largest state park in West Virginia, earning the DSP designation would add yet another feather to Watoga’s cap.
The application process began two years ago, culminating in a 99-page application that included detailed measurements of night sky depth by local astronomers and light pollution maps, and resulted in the replacement of 181 outdoor light fixtures and bulbs to be dark sky-compliant.
Watoga Lake, the Anne Bailey trailhead, and other areas in the park should provide scenic nocturnal viewing opportunities for astronomers, tourists, photographers and visitors. Future plans include educational programs and star parties for dark-sky enthusiasts at Watoga, Droop Mountain and Calvin Price.
“The [pending] designation will put Watoga on the radar of groups or individuals who seek out dark sky facilities,” said Watoga superintendent Jody Spencer. “Dark skies have always been noticeable at Watoga, where night hikes, nighttime boating, and owl walks are popular activities. I think the real benefit to park guests is the fact that light pollution in the park has been greatly diminished.”
Stay tuned to our website (highland-outdoors.com) for more information on this exciting announcement.
For more information and visit the Watoga State Park Foundation – Dark Sky Project Facebook page.
Reprinted with permission from Highland Outdoors magazine, Fall 2021 edition
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John Dean is a writer and editor who grew up in Watoga in the 1960s. He is an active board member of the Watoga State Park Foundation.