See Stacked Rocks on Your Michigan Hike? Take Them Down Immediately
Rock stacking, or rock balancing, is a part of a lot of different cultures for burial grounds or shrines.
Some people also use rock stacking as a way to find their way back during hikes.
However, rock stacking is actually extremely bad. If you see any stacked rocks, you are supposed to take them down immediately.
Lonely Planet says
"What many don't know, however, is that is a practice rife with controversy, especially as it finds its way into national parks and other protected areas. Depending on whom you ask, rock-stacking is either a crucial navigational device, an environmental menace, or even a rewarding mindfulness practice."
So why is it such a big deal for people?
Why Is Rock Stacking Bad?
There are multiple reasons why rock stacking is bad, specifically for the local ecosystem.
AUSABLE River says that a lot of different species of fish lay their eggs in between the rocks. If you move them or stack them, those eggs could be washed away or left vulnerable to other predators.
That goes for salamanders and other aquatic insects, such as mayflies, damselflies, and dragonflies.
Another reason that rock stacking is bad is because of the idea of leaving no trace when you are outdoors.
"The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace provide an easily understood framework of minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. The Principles can be applied anywhere — from remote wilderness areas, to local parks and even in your backyard."
So while stacking rocks can all be fun and games, instead of causing an uproar of controversy, maybe just keep the rock stacking to your own home.