(COLORADO) — On Wednesday, Jan. 22 Governor Jared Polis announced that 13 state parks across Colorado would work to reduce light pollution.

The new program called the Colorado State Parks Dark Sky Certification program will work with Colorado nonprofit DarkSky Colorado to implement strategies that reduce light pollution. The goal according to the Governor’s Office is to reduce light pollution and protect Colorado’s stunning night skies for stargazers and dreamers. The program is also hoping to encourage visitor exploration of hidden gems in rural communities, provide educational opportunities, and promote off-season travel.

Each state park will get 20 free hours of consulting from DarkSky Colorado to advance their efforts in achieving International Dark Sky Place certification. The state parks will also have the opportunity to get sky quality meter equipment supplied by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).

“Reducing unnecessary light pollution saves energy, enhances stargazing tourism, and protects Colorado’s breathtaking night skies for everyone. This new collaboration with DarkSky Colorado will help keep our star-filled skies clear for future generations of Coloradans and tourists to enjoy comets, constellations, and meteors,” said Governor Polis.

The participating state parks include:

Crawford

Eleven Mile

Elkhead Reservoir

Golden Gate Canyon

Highline Lake

John Martin Reservoir

Mueller

Rifle Gap

State Forest

Steamboat Lake

Sweetwater Lake

Staunton

Trinidad Lake

“Dark sky preservation is a growing priority statewide, and we’re thrilled to be supporting these state parks in achieving reduced unnecessary light pollution,” said CPW Deputy Director Heather Disney Dugan. “Through this program, participating areas will help lead the way in showing how tourism and environmental stewardship can go hand-in-hand.”