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Cedar Hill proclaims 'Lights Out' spring campaign to protect migrating birds
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Summary
Mayor Stephen Mason signed a proclamation declaring spring Lights Out dates and city staff and partners described measures and partnerships to reduce light pollution and protect migrating birds, with community praise for the initiative.
Mayor Stephen Mason signed a proclamation Tuesday declaring Cedar Hill’s participation in the Lights Out Texas initiative for the spring migration period, calling on residents and businesses to turn off nonessential nighttime lighting to reduce hazards for migrating birds.
The proclamation, read as part of the council’s presentations, designates critical migratory periods and asks building owners, businesses, developers and homeowners to turn off nonessential outdoor lighting between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. during the specified dates. "I, Stephen Mason, mayor of the city of Cedar Hill, do hereby proclaim" the city’s participation, the proclamation states.
A representative from Texas Parks and Wildlife described the campaign as "a campaign to save migratory birds," citing large-scale declines in bird populations and the role of light pollution in disorienting birds during nocturnal migration. City parks staff highlighted local partnerships with the school district and library to raise awareness and noted the city’s efforts to use bird-friendly glass in municipal projects.
Resident Philip Lemelich, speaking during public comment, praised the proclamation and said it improves Cedar Hill’s profile: "I appreciate what you are doing on this because I believe it is really important," he told the council.
The proclamation lists partner organizations including the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Texas Conservation Alliance, Dallas Zoo, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and Houston Audubon. It asks the public to support Lights Out Texas and cites the initiative’s goal of reducing collisions and other hazards to migratory birds.
The council did not take further action beyond adopting the proclamation; staff indicated outreach and partnerships will continue through the spring campaign.
