I think for me, partially, is the fact bikers PREDOMINANTLY, do the trail work. I don't see hikers, dog walkers, politicians, or trail runners doing anything. And when I do my part (cutting up fallen trees with my chainsaw which is no small matter since I don't drive up) I get nothing but thanks and accolades from EVERYONE. But make no mistake. I am no hiker, dog walker or trail runner. But a lifelong biker. And having seen how it was, where it is and where it is going, I take stewardship and, perhaps, priority, seriously. Walking or running up Espresso (the new line) is sheer idiocy. It is a DH flowy rip and no one expects to stop on a dime. Fact. Same with Bobsled, and you are warned on the bottom. But since the trail is so easy to walk up, it only invites walkers whom are not the most "constitutionally fit". We reap our own problems. I don't see many hiking up Upper Crippler, of which I do regularly. It seems to me so one sided: bikers are expected to do all the work, and take all risks (the fallen spire at the top of Grannies took me 2 hours to cut and the logs were not small. Think broken leg.) but we are expected to then abase ourselves to completely naive users whom contribute nothing. I guess you can tell where I stand.
In the end, I am particular to set the example. I am polite and courteous to all I meet, since you only win with kindness. We will see how long it lasts if I am chastised by an ambivalent user out for a stroll, but given recent events I doubt this. Insomuch as the "Watchmen", it reminds me of a 80's horror flick "The Watcher In The Woods". But I seriously think the idea is more to stake claim to the trails than trail work, and if that is the case, frankly, I am all for it. I welcome all, but bikers to me have the right since the work and trail is there due to bikers. Simple. Want to change that? Get more hikers, walkers and runners out on trail days and maybe my point of view will change.
not sure where you ride but i have done roughly 12 build days thru the FVMBA on several mountains and there is ALWAYS !!!! a group of trail runners that come out and donate time , the new climbing trail on Bear BTLC is being maintained and upgraded weekly by a TRAILRUNNER !!!