Ken Plecki News Today

Thanks to a joint effort between two Nebraska state agencies, the 729-acre Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area is now the first certified International Dark Sky Park in the state.

Flatwater Free Press

The annual Nebraska Star Party held at Merritt Reservoir last month was the first since the sites international certification for uniquely dark skies. Some think it deserves even greater recognition.

Last year the International Dark-Sky Association confirmed what partygoers have known for years: The Sandhills boast some of the darkest skies on Earth.