Rock-Stacking: how "art" actually disrupts Idaho wildlife
You're hiking your way through the pristine, practically untouched Idaho wilderness, surrounded by never-ending natural beauty, when out of nowhere, you stumble across a hiking trail adorned with what appears to be artistically stacked rocks (also known as "cairns") created by some well-intentioned hiker or happy hippie.
It's pretty and totally Instagram-worthy, sure. But is it actually good for the environment? That's a question Idahoans have posed and debated for decades.
According to Mother Nature, rock-sculptures aren't as cool as you think.
There's something to be said about wanting to leave your mark on the world with a sense of flair and creativity. Commissioning the construction of those seemingly innocent rock sculptures, however, isn't the way to do it.
We almost hate to say it, but what the creative mind perceives as art is actually a legitimate threat to Idaho wildlife. Think about it: you're basically playing Jenga with a creature's natural habitat by moving, manipulating, and piling these stacks of rocks.
We liken it to walking into someone's house and rearranging their furniture without permission. Who would be okay with that?!
Mission Unstackable!
Here's the good news: righting this wrong is a no-brainer. If you happen to encounter one of these decorative rock formations on a hike or while you're floating the Boise River, unstack 'em! It's that easy.
In a matter of minutes, you have the ability to give an Idaho critter a chance to reclaim their homes and live in harmony with their natural habitat. Just be sure to *carefully* dismantle the stack as you return the rocks to their original scattered state. You wouldn't want to crush a critter that may be hiding nearby.
Happy unstacking, y'all!
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