Eight people were arrested and more than 21,000 cannabis plants were destroyed in a statewide crackdown on illegal grow sites, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office announced Tuesday.
The operations, led by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s specialized cannabis teams, targeted illicit cultivation hidden in sensitive habitats and watersheds in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Mateo, Santa Cruz and Tehama counties.
Officials also seized more than 150 pounds of processed cannabis and confiscated bottles of pesticides banned in the U.S. for health and safety risks. Water flow was restored at sites where it had been illegally diverted to sustain the crops.
According to the department, the eradicated plants would have consumed up to 9.5 million gallons of water during their growth cycle.
The eight suspects face multiple charges, including unlawful cannabis cultivation, cultivation causing environmental harm, polluting state waters, depositing hazardous substances on another’s property and resisting arrest.
The public can report illegal outdoor cannabis grows by calling (888) 334-2258 or by sending a text to 847411 (TIP411). Tips can be reported 24/7.