Naramata Slow is a non-profit dedicated to creating and celebrating Naramata’s unique community by adopting the principles of the Cittaslow community designation. The Cittaslow philosophy is built around the desire to provide a high quality of life.

Inspired by the great work of Dark Sky International, the leading organization combating light pollution worldwide, we have formally applied to have Naramata recognized as a designated International Dark Sky Community.

Dark Sky International is the recognized authority for night sky protection. It has taken the lead in identifying and publicizing the negative impacts of artificial light at night on human health, wildlife and the environment.

The rigorous process of certification requires that Naramata demonstrate its commitment to valuing and protecting the night sky through our implementation of quality outdoor lighting ordinances, to celebrating the night sky through educational events and that we continue to reach out to our Community to share the importance of dark skies and limiting light pollution.

This process has included an audit of all municipal buildings and outdoor lights in Naramata to ensure we comply with best practices. 

We have already eliminated lighting through minimal use of street lights and replaced all public spaces lighting with downward directional lighting, light sensors and high-efficiency LED bulbs, which use less energy and improve colour temperature. 

We have included the preservation of the dark skies in the most recently revised Official Community Plan (Electoral Area “E” Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 2458, 2008, is amended by adding a new Section 21.1.6 Street Lighting.)

Critical to this process is amending RDOS Area E Bylaws to include revised exterior lighting standards, providing information to the design and building industry and educating and empowering individuals in our community to make correct choices for their residential lighting. 

A lighting code allows a community to express its expectation for quality lighting and dark skies. For all proposed new land uses, developments, buildings, and structures that require a permit, all outdoor lighting shall meet the requirements of this. We are currently calling upon the RDOS to mandate dark sky-friendly lighting practices in the current Bylaws. 

Accomplishing an addition to our local bylaws will ensure that Naramata minimizes or eliminates waste light, light trespass, and light pollution in our beautiful village in the years to come. 

This will enhance the night-time character and visual experience of Naramata for residents and visitors, improve the health and well-being of all living things, and reduce energy consumption and waste in our community.