I feel that the possession of a firearm for self protection is a good idea due to the increase in the number of wild animals in our forests and towns.  Permit holders have  the qualifications needed to provide responsible use of a needed tool for this situation.  Carrying a gun for protection is usually done if a dangerous situation is supected and not as the norm.  I have lived in my current residence since 1980 and this is the first year that we have seen Coyote and it was not just one but five.  We also had a bear tear down our bird feeder which was 20 feet from the house. 

I would like you to consider this also to provide the contenuity of laws that allow carry permit holders to  possess a firearm at other locations and not isolate the state forest as ground reserved for those that would prey on the law abiding citizens without protection.

Thanks for your consideration,

Rodger Bivens

Salem, Va.