Archaeological sites and artifacts are very important to our history. Visiting them for education on evolution is wise. However, we need also to know about the dos and don’ts before visiting them. This will help to preserve the artifacts and sites.
Leave Them As They Are
Historical artifacts are not trash although some of them may look like trash. Do not throw them away just let them be. These artifacts help archaeologists interpret what happened in the past. It also shows how people used to live. Keep discovery alive by leaving the artifacts where you get them for the next person to share the experience. Relocating any artifact including the historic trash is illegal.
Avoid Using Ropes
The use of climbing gear like ropes to get into archaeological sites is not permitted since this may damage the site. The ropes may cause falling rocks and looting that may damage the already-fragile site. Avoid using such climbing gear whenever you visit these sites.
Follow Instructed Roads
When traveling to any cultural sites, always ensure you use the designated roads. Off-road driving can create new roads on the top of the delicate ecosystem and archaeology and damage them before archaeologists visit them.
Do Not Reveal GPS Coordinate
Even though GPS usually is very useful during expeditions, sharing GPS points on your trip report online can lead uneducated travelers to sensitive archaeological sites. It is, therefore, wise to ensure you remove every location reference on your online posts.
Learn Site Fire Regulations
Always ensure you check where fires are permitted near the archaeological site. If the location you stay allows fires, make sure you use available fire rings or your own fire pan into the backcountry. Fires, food, and camping can damage the archaeological remains and spoil the view for other people.
Steer Clear of Walls
Historic and prehistoric structures can be damaged easily. You, therefore, need to refrain from touching, standing, climbing or leaning on any of the structures regardless of how solid they may look. Also, vandalism of pictographs and petroglyphs can erase stories of ancient people and destroys the experience for future visitors.
Archaeological sites are some of the places where you will get the evidence of evolution. They are essential for education as well as tourism. When visiting these sites, it is vital to take note of these points.…