I think you nailed it. Researchers are afraid that if they say “hey, everyone, look at this awesome site in Ohio!” their boss will make them go. Even worse, they might be forced to lead a two-year study.

This was literally the first thing out of my mouth after reading the title.

I find the title almost click bait'ish.

Not too much to stop reading. It's a pretty dry subject so the opinions and more hot-button references made the piece more readable. Though I think the characters interviewed could have added enough life without the author injecting snide comments.

Arguably overplayed, but it was balanced by the rest of the article.

Massive historical significance, miniscule aesthetic value (in the present day). If Egypt had to engage in "interpretive mowing" to emphasize the pyramids, they would also be overlooked by tourists.