Please take action to approve concealed carry in state forests in VA. I am a CHP holder in VA and an increasingly avid outdoorsman. I think it is a responsible thing to carry a firearm when backpacking or hiking in state forests to protect one's self against both people who would harm me or others, but also wildlife such as bears. Predatory black bear attacks happen, and more people are seriously injured or killed by black bears each year than by grizzlies. I think that as a responsible gun owner and CHP holder in VA I should be able to carry my concealed firearm in VA state forests for these reasons. Please approve concealed carry in state forests, and please do not delay. 

Sincerely,

Ben Piper

Arlington, VA