As an outdoorsman who enjoys backpacking, hiking, hunting, and photography in the beauty of Virginia's forests, and a gun owner and patriot that believes it is the responsibility of citizens to defend themselves against threats from both humans with ill-intent and animals that can cause harm, I strongly encourage you you adopt the proposed amendment to Virginia State Forest Regulation 4VAC10-30-170 that would allow concealed carry permit holders to carry a concealed handgun for self-defense.  This will provide responsible citizens the means to help protect life and liberty while enjoying the beauty of God's creation in the Virginia state forests.

Thank you for your consideration.

Jason Matyas