In a recent Facebook post, Texas environmentalist group Big Bend Conservation Alliance recognized the efforts of Apache Corp. to work with the McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis to protect dark skies. The group stated:
“It’s likely that many of you have already heard about McDonald Observatory’s $257,000 gift from the Apache Corporation. This gift will allow the Observatory keep up its great work to protect the region’s dark skies. McDonald’s Dark Sky Initiative works with industry to educate and improve lighting practices. Their efforts are unique and have contributed greatly to lighting practices across the state and nation.”
Apache Corp. contributed $257,000 to the McDonald Observatory last month to help with their dark skies programs. The funding will go towards hiring additional staff, collaborations with local governments and businesses, educational materials, outreach events, and a new permanent exhibit on dark sky preservation.
Apache Corp. has repeatedly been a target of false claims by Texas environmental groups despite their environmental preservation efforts. In addition to their dark skies effort, Apache Corp. has also worked to protect fresh groundwater aquifers in West Texas.
