I am asking you to allow the carry of handguns, either concealed with a permit or openly carried, on State Forest lands. As an older person (73) I am aware that elderly people are targeted by predatory people because it is thought they are easy prey. Everyone should be allowed to defend themselves, especially those who are targeted more than the average population. Retired people use the forests for recreation quite a bit because they have the time. Please allow us to be able to defend ourselves if we need to. Also, an openly carried handgun could be a deterrent simply by its visibility.

Thank You