Travis County Commissioners voted on a proclamation accepting the designation at a Nov. 9 meeting.
“Reimers Ranch is a well-known and well-loved park in western Travis County. This designation makes our parkland even more special,” said Ann Howard, Travis County Commissioner for Precinct 3, in a statement. “I’m thrilled Travis County Parks plays an important role in preserving views of the night sky. Reimers Ranch Park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Texas Hill Country, and it’s exciting to see it be recognized for its exceptional quality of starry nights.”
In order to receive an International Dark Sky Park designation by the International Dark-Sky Association, Reimers Ranch had to prove its skies were free from light pollution and offer "impressive views of the stars and the Milky Way Galaxy," according to Travis County.
Night sky views can be taken in from the Reimers Observatory, which has two large telescopes available to the public.
Reimers Ranch is located at 23610 Hamilton Road, Dripping Springs. Dripping Springs is one of 34 designated International Dark-Sky Communities, along with several other Central Texas locations, including the Wimberley Valley.
The city has held the designation since 2014, and maintains outdoor lighting ordinances to preserve night sky views.
“Milton Reimers Ranch Park will be another strategic piece in preserving the night sky in Hill Country, Texas,” said Ruskin Hartley, Executive Director of IDA, in a news release. “Each certified place continues to raise awareness by providing outreach opportunities and access to pristine night skies, especially for people who live in cities like Austin."
Learn more about the International Dark-Sky Association's involvement in Central Texas here.
