Nature program about importance of dark skies set for Nov. 13 now moved inside

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Hannibal Parks and Recreation is sponsoring a nature program called “The Darker the Sky the Better” starting at 7 p.m. Nov. 13. The program originally was to be held at Huckleberry Park, but a cold weather forecast forced organizers to move it inside the Admiral Coontz Recreation Center.

Gale Rublee, nature educator for Hannibal Parks and Recreation, will lead the program. “Come learn about the importance of dark skies which are not only for those who like to view the stars but for the benefit of plants and animals including humans,” Rublee said in a press release.

The inappropriate or excessive use of artificial light – known as light pollution – can have serious environmental consequences for humans, wildlife and climate, according to the International Dark Sky Association.

Rublee is a nationally certified Interpreter guide and founding member of the Hannibal area Missouri Master Naturalist Mississippi Hills chapter.

Nature programs are free. More information is available by calling 573-221-0154 or emailing mlrichards@hannibal-mo.gov.