Mount Rushmore goes dark for Earth Hour
The bright neon lights of the Las Vegas strip suddenly go black. The Sphinx and the Great Pyramids of Egypt are thrust into darkness. And the giant spotlights that typically illuminate Mount Rushmore National Memorial are switched off.
It sounds like something from an end-of-days science fiction movie, but it really will happen – and for good reason – on March 27th. Mount Rushmore National Memorial will be dimming its lights that night as part of a world-wide event called “Earth Hour.”
Earth Hour was an idea originally conceived by the World Wildlife Fund to symbolically show support for action on climate change. But it has apparently turned into a much larger movement than was first imagined.
As part of Earth Hour 2010, families, business, cities and international attractions and landmarks will all be going dark for one hour on the 27th. From 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m local time, the lights will go out, in an effort to reduce power usage and lessen their impact on the environment.
In a recent press release from the organizers of Earth Hour 2010, Mount Rushmore Superintendent Gerard Baker said “Earth Hour directly links with Department of Interior and National Park Service priorities. Our stewardship mission is to manage this country’s most treasured landscapes for the enjoyment of future generations. This mission is being challenged particularly by climate change. ”
Baker went on to say, “As stewards of our national parks, we must be visible leaders to demonstrate commitment to energy and water conservation… and to use our parks to teach the public about climate change and the ways citizens can reduce their carbon footprints.”
With its participation in Earth Hour 2010, Mount Rushmore National Memorial will be in good company – other global landmarks that will be dimming the lights as part of the event include: St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Big Ben in London, the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Sydney Opera House in Australia. For a really cool visual of what Earth Hour 2009 looked like, check out this video from last year’s event.
