This Saturday, Deerhurst Resort will be flipping the switch, joining homeowners and businesses across Ontario and around the world in an hour-long ‘lights out’ initiative to recognize the importance of everyday environmental stewardship and the need for action against global warming.

“Seeing is believing,” said Joseph Klein Deerhurst’s general manager. “And spread across 800 acres, Deerhurst is a pretty visible Muskoka landmark.  So we want to do our part to help spread the word with our guests and associates, and remind ourselves that small actions can make a big difference on an issue that affects everyone.”

During the hour, Deerhurst restaurants like Steamers Steakhouse will be serving dinner by romantic candlelight. Guests can also take part in a night hike. “It’s a great Saturday night excuse to slow down, gaze at the stars and get close to someone special,” noted Klein. “We hope our neighbours and the community join in one black-out we can all appreciate.”

Deerhurst Resort is rated by the Hotel Association of Canada’s Green Key program for environmental stewardship and has an active employee green team. One of the resort’s environmental actions incorporates a commitment to source local produce and support the growing Savour Muskoka culinary trail, limiting transport emissions, plus a comprehensive kitchen composting program.

Delta Grandview Inn will also be turning off the lights for the hour to support the initiative.

Organized by the World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour is a global initiative that aims at encouraging people to turn off their lights and all non-essential power for one hour at 8 p.m. on March 29 to show their support for action on climate change. To learn more about the initiative visit www.earthhour.org.