The evolution of a cave system, and anthropogenic influence

[Aotus]

Caves are dynamic systems. For cave divers, this adds potential hazards such as unexpected silt outs from nearby collapses, or worse, losing an exit route. Shifting rocks may also change the passages that are popular such that they become impassible. Consequent changes to flow dynamics may influence the settling of silt in other parts of the cave. These changes may be undesirable to cave divers visiting the system because they reduce visibility or hinder exploration. However, as guests in a dynamic environment, are we entitled to alter the cave to make it more desirable for us?

This discussion was started in a recent thread about a collapse in JB. I set up this new thread to hear thoughts about the human effect on caves, intentional or otherwise.

The message that many of us received during training in recent years dictates that conservation must be considered when diving caves, and this takes the form of minimizing contact with the cave itself, including indirect contact such as stirring up silt. However, we all know that anthropogenic change is inevitable. Bubbles from OC systems is a particularly obvious weak link in this philosophy. So, what happens when humans influence (perhaps inadvertently) change a cave? Is it then OK for us to alter the cave? What is the motivation for intentional modification of a cave and when does the motivation justify interference? For the well-being of the cave? For science? To preserve a fun passage?