Here is an unsolicited E-mailed comment from a gentleman unfamiliar with the controversy. I expect the average reader of the LA Times might react in similar manner:

My read on the article is that Ty Davis made a fool of himself. This quote paints him in the worst possible light: "trails I've burned with my motorcycle have actually improved conditions for wildlife. Animals use those trails now. It's the coolest thing." That nonsense isn't going to fool anyone. Elsewhere it is clear he is an intimidator and a dangerous person to cross.