In a significant victory for environmental preservation, the National Park Service (NPS) announced on Thursday the removal of a massive illegal marijuana cultivation site in Sequoia National Park. The operation led to the seizure of nearly 2,400 marijuana plants and approximately 2,000 pounds of waste from a 13-acre site.
The illegal farm was discovered last year, but cleanup was delayed due to hazardous chemicals present at the site, including methamidophos, a banned insecticide highly toxic to wildlife and humans. According to the Los Angeles Times, this chemical can cause severe ecological damage if it contaminates waterways or groundwater.
The NPS, in collaboration with the Bureau of Land Management, conducted the removal using both manual labor and helicopters to airlift the plants and trash. The site had caused significant environmental harm, including the diversion of natural water flows and the clearing of vegetation. Rangers also found evidence of poaching and a semi-automatic pistol at the location.
The illegal marijuana farms in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have been a persistent issue for nearly two decades, with drug-trafficking organizations exploiting the vast wilderness areas. Over the years, nearly 300,000 plants valued at approximately $850 million have been eradicated from these parks, according to the National Park Service.
While no arrests have been made, the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities urge anyone with information about illegal cultivation on park land to contact the NPS Tip Line at 888-653-0009. The ongoing efforts to combat these illegal operations are crucial to preserving the park’s natural resources and ensuring the safety of both the public and park staff.
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