📷 Milky Way over the Blitzen River in winter, Oregon | Peter Pearsall/USFWS
We are excited to announce the recipient of the 2024 O’Brien Prize for Refuge Friends, the Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge (FOMR)! This annual prize recognizes the outstanding contributions of Refuge Friends groups whose projects foster deeper connections with their communities while enhancing the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System.
The Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge have been awarded the O’Brien Prize for their DarkSky Lighting Compliance project. This innovative initiative aims to bring the lighting fixtures at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge up to DarkSky International (DarkSky) standards, reducing light pollution and creating a more wildlife-friendly environment.
In March 2024, 2.5 million acres of Oregon’s Outback in Lake County were officially designated as a Dark Sky Sanctuary by DarkSky. This significant designation is the first phase of a broader effort to protect and promote the largest contiguous stretch of Dark Skies in the lower 48 states. The Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge are committed to expanding this sanctuary, and their project is a crucial step towards achieving this goal.
The DarkSky Lighting Compliance project will retrofit outdoor lighting at various locations within the refuge, including Refuge Headquarters, Double O, Buena Vista, and P Ranch. By replacing non-compliant fixtures with those that meet DarkSky standards, the project will minimize light pollution, benefiting birds, insects, and other wildlife.
Community Engagement
A key aspect of this project is its focus on building stronger connections within the local community. The Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge plan to educate their neighbors about the importance of DarkSky compliance and encourage local businesses and facilities to adopt similar practices. Potential partners include the Malheur Field Station, the Historic Frenchglen Hotel, The Narrows RV Park and Jackalope Cafe, Crystal Crane Hot Springs, and local ranches.
Educational Component
The project also includes an educational component to raise awareness about the value of dark sky habitats. Since the Malheur NWR is closed to the public from dusk to dawn, the Friends group will install an interpretive sign at Refuge Headquarters and distribute brochures on how to reduce personal light footprints. These materials will help visitors and the local community understand the significance of preserving dark skies for wildlife.
Looking Ahead
The completion of this project will not only enhance the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge’s compliance with DarkSky standards but also serve as a model for other refuges and communities. It aligns with FOMR’s strategic theme of building stronger, deeper connections and demonstrates their dedication to conservation and community engagement.
The National Wildlife Refuge Association congratulates the Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge on their well-deserved 2024 O’Brien Prize for Refuge Friends. Their commitment to protecting wildlife and promoting conservation through innovative projects like the DarkSky Lighting Compliance initiative is truly inspiring.
