Preserving the Darkness

When most people think of Michigan one of the first things that comes to mind is the lakes and the beautiful spots that can be explored. Northern Michigan exemplifies that idea more then any other area of the state. One of the most unique places to visit is The Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Emmet County. The park was designated in 2011 and at the time, became the sixth park in the United States and the ninth in the world to receive the honor. The dark sky group works to preserve sights where light pollution is at a minimum to give visitors the opportunity to observe the stars and sky.

The park is set on about 600 acres of land endowed by the late Roger McCormick. McCormick chose the land by dropping sacks of flour to mark the boundaries he wanted to purchase. Later the park was donated to Emmet County and turned into The Headlands natural area. The park is set on the shore of Lake Michigan and is home to many species of wild life, including Eagles, Osprey and White Tail Deer. Michigan’s designated wildflower the Dwarf Lake Iris can be seen on the property and is a unique and rare flower that grows in limited areas along the Northern shores of Lake Michigan.

Mary Stewart Adams Program Director at the park puts on programs year round. Adams moved to Emmet County and over time created a full time job for herself doing talks and programs on the night sky. She first was interested in the stories behind the stars and the cultural significance they hold. After a lot of personal research Adams began presenting at schools, colleges and special events. Now she is a full time employee for the County were she continues to do community events as well as a radio show for public radio.