A positive environmental impact of an operating railway needs to be emphasised. An operating railway has a vested interest in things like erosion control, soil slippage, culvert maintenance. Railroads can be good stewards of the land. An operating railroad also restricts unintended use in sensitive areas such as four-wheeling, dirt bikes and so forth. A bike trail would not be without its own environmental impact and costs such as policing, emergency responce for injuries, liter and dumping. On a smaller scale, I am proud to have been a part of the PLA's effort in Niles Canyon. A good example of stewardship of public land.