About Lights Out

Lights Out Indy is an initiative of the Amos W. Butler Audubon Society, Central Indiana’s chapter of the National Audubon Society.  Founded in 1938, the not-for-profit organization has been a leader among local environmental groups in educational, conservation and outreach programs focusing on birds.  Approximately 2,000 members currently belong to the Amos W. Butler Audubon chapter.

Aware that other cities across North America have successfully implemented Lights Out programs, chapter leaders, in early 2008, decided it was time for such a program in Indianapolis.  A small grant from Birdathon 2008, the chapter’s annual fundraising effort  to fund worthwhile education, research and conservation projects, made possible the first steps towards organization.

A committee of dedicated Audubon volunteers was formed in early 2009 to plan the Lights Out Indy initiative, to be launched in spring 2010.  The committee quickly made progress in establishing partnerships and gaining supporters.  Nathan Bingham volunteered his talents in the design of both the logo and the website.

The Lights Out Indy program is completely voluntary.  Buildings owners and managers who participate will see substantial energy savings, thereby saving financial resources.  In the process they will also save the lives of birds. Participants will find this program attractive because there are virtually no downsides or negative features.  Indeed, everyone wins.

Partners in the initiative include the City of Indianapolis through the Office of Sustainability.

Read more about Lights Out Indy in the Sept/October 2009 newsletter of the Amos W. Butler Audubon Society.  Available at this link:  http://www.amosbutleraudubon.org/images/stories/LifeLines_Sep_09.pdf