This is Getting Left Along Southern Utah Trails, Why?

There is something happening on Southern Utah trails that I do not understand. I admit freely that I don’t know all things and I could be stupid, but I need some sort of explanation.  

We have so many great walking trails. The paved ones and the more natural curve around rivers and over bluffs that give us amazing views of this beautiful area. Most of these trails are pet friendly where your dog can sniff the wilds of nature. 

Most people bring bags to pick up the presents left on the trail from their four-legged friends. I appreciate this responsible behavior. It is a thoughtful thing to do for those who will use the path afterwards.  

Here is my question. Why, after picking up the dog’s business, it is then left by the side of the trail in the bag? Many trails here in Southern Utah have little bags of dog poop sitting to the side. This seems to defeat the purpose of picking it up. What am I missing? 

Is the owner leaving it until they come back down the trail? Am I seeing a cleanup process midway?

Maybe these are people cleaning the trails from others who didn’t pick up their pet’s offerings. Is it waiting by the side of the trail for a second group to come and toss it into a bigger bag? 

I want to believe the best about people. Have you noticed if these little bags eventually disappear or are they going to keep piling up until all trails are lined with bags of poop? If I am curious, I'm sure others are as well. 

I don’t mean to stir up a problem if there isn’t any. So, if this is me being dumb, forgive me. If it is people picking up after their dog, how about you pack it out and toss it in a dumpster?