Seeing the volcanic rocks in Hawaii got me thinking about preservation vs access.
I just got back from a trip to Hawaii where I checked out some amazing volcanic rock formations. Some folks say these places need strict rules to keep them from getting ruined by too many visitors. Like, at one spot, they have boardwalks and guides to stop people from touching the fragile lava tubes. But others argue that too many rules take away from the raw, hands-on experience of geology. I mean, idk, maybe it's just me, but I loved being able to get up close to the rocks at a less regulated site. So now I'm stuck between wanting to protect these places and wanting to really connect with them. What do you all think? Is it better to have tight control or more freedom at geological sites?