The Hill Country Dark Sky Conference returned to Blanco for the first time since 2019, drawing more than 60 regional leaders, experts, and advocates to address the growing threat of light pollution across Central Texas.
“Our skies are not just a backdrop; they are part of our heritage, our science, and our spirit,” said Blanco Mayor Candy Cargill, who opened the conference. “Preserving them is a responsibility we proudly share with all of you here today.”
Hosted by the City of Blanco in partnership with the Blanco Chamber of Commerce, Blanco County Friends of the Night Sky, and the Hill Country Alliance, the event featured expert-led sessions and highlighted recent efforts to preserve the Hill Country’s iconic night skies.
Speakers included:
• Amber Harrison, International Dark Sky Places Manager, DarkSky International
• Dawn Davies, Night Sky Program Manager, Hill Country Alliance
• Dalton Rice, City Manager, Kerrville
• Michelle Fischer, City Administrator, Dripping Springs
• Libbey Aly, Executive Director, Blanco Chamber of Commerce
• Wayne Gosnell, President, Blanco County Friends of the Night Sky
• Richard King, Communications Project Manager, Joint Base San Antonio
• Buddy Stefanoff, Vice President, Crossroads LED Topics ranged from lighting ordinances and community engagement to military base coordination and lighting technology advancements.
A surprise appearance by the “Wizard of the Night Sky” added a whimsical moment to the day, reinforcing the need for broad public involvement.
“We can’t assume that our skies will always be starfilled in the Hill Country,” said Katherine Romans, executive director of the Hill Country Alliance. “Fortunately, Central Texas has some of the most passionate, organized, and dedicated staff and volunteers anywhere in the world.”
As development pressures increase across the region, organizers said the return of the conference signals a renewed commitment to preserving one of Texas’ most awe-inspiring natural features: its starry skies.
The Hill Country Alliance is a nonprofit focused on conserving open spaces, water resources, and the night skies of Central Texas. More information is available at hillcountryalliance.org.
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