Dark sky preserves could boost tourism

By KAYLA SMITH
Capital News Service
LANSING — A new law designating dark sky preserves in Michigan is expected to pull visitors from all over the world, advocates say. “It was a natural fit,” said Rep. Peter Pettalia, R-Presque Isle. Pettalia was behind the law meant to protect northern Michigan state parks from artificial light pollution. “It’s such a neat experience to witness celestial happenings all around you,” Pettalia said. The law specifies Rockport State Recreation Area, in Alpena and Presque Isle counties, Negwegon State Park in Alpena and Alcona counties, and Thompson’s Harbor State Park in Presque Isle County.