by ruth neagle  •  mpa treasurer

I am drawn to Moose Pond by the promise of peace, natural beauty, and a clear view of the night sky. However, light pollution – excessive or poorly directed artificial lighting – can significantly diminish that quality of life. For many lake residents and visitors, the impacts are more than just aesthetic; they can extend to health/sleep consequences, can impact wildlife, and can reduce our overall enjoyment of the natural setting.

One of the most immediate consequences of light pollution is the loss of dark skies. Lakeside homes and camps are often prized for stargazing opportunities, but when floodlights, streetlights, or bright shoreline fixtures are left on through the night, the stars fade behind a hazy glow. This not only robs people of a connection to the natural night sky but also reduces the tranquility that draws many of us to lakeside living in the first place.

Light pollution can also disturb wildlife that depends on natural darkness to survive. Birds, fish, amphibians, and insects use natural light cues to migrate, feed, and reproduce. Artificial lighting along the shoreline can disorient these species, disrupt ecosystems, and reduce biodiversity – ultimately altering the natural balance that makes lake environments special.

Finally, light pollution can affect human health. Bright lights at night disrupt circadian rhythms, making it harder for people to fall and stay asleep. Over time, this can contribute to stress and fatigue.

In 2025, a bill called LD 1934 was passed by Maine’s state legislature and has, so far, been held by the state’s governor. In it, the bill established crucial standards for outdoor lighting on state and municipal properties including:

• Downward-shielded fixtures to direct light where it is needed
• Lights of warm color temperatures, which are less disruptive to the natural environment
• Guidelines for extinguishing or dimming lights late at night to reduce unnecessary illumination
• Standards to minimize “light trespass” on neighboring properties

By adopting responsible lighting practices lakes like ours can preserve the serenity, health, and beauty that make lakeside living on Moose Pond so valuable.

Lakeside homes and camps are often prized for stargazing opportunities, but when floodlights, streetlights, or bright shoreline fixtures are left on through the night, the stars fade behind a hazy glow.