What exactly are the environmental conditions on Mauna Kea? What kinds of native plants and animals live at those altitudes? Besides astronomers and tourists, have any new species been introduced to the volcanoes?

As for beliefs, how do the native Hawaiians view these mountains? How many actually practice any religious rites on them? Are these beliefs and practicies truly ancient, or were they introduced rather recently for political purposes?

I want to scream "It's an OBSERVATORY! Not a ski resort, not a mining operation, not a manufacturing plant! These places are almost like monasteries!"

There, I feel better...for now.