Last week, officials dismantled a large illegal marijuana grow operation concealed deep within Sequoia National Park in California, removing thousands of plants and nearly a ton of hazardous waste that had damaged the wilderness.
The National Park Service (NPS) reported Thursday that crews extracted 2,377 mature marijuana plants and approximately 2,000 pounds of trash and equipment from a site affecting about 13 acres of protected California parkland.
Much of the material was manually removed and airlifted by helicopter by NPS law enforcement rangers and Bureau of Land Management special agents.
Signs of cartel-linked drug network
Authorities noted that the operation showed signs of a sophisticated drug-trafficking network, a problem that has plagued Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for nearly two decades. During that time, officials have eradicated nearly 300,000 plants valued at $850 million from the two parks.
Law enforcement rangers detected and raided the site in 2024, but were unable to rehabilitate it until this year due to the presence of hazardous chemicals.
Toxic chemicals and weapons discovered
When NPS crews returned, they discovered a semi-automatic pistol and evidence of the banned insecticide Methamidophos, a highly toxic organophosphate pesticide prohibited in the U.S. since 2009.
The EPA warns Methamidophos poses serious neurotoxic risks to humans, wildlife, and the environment, with potential to cause permanent health issues or death.
Environmental damage to 13 acres
The NPS detailed the significant damage caused to the park’s wilderness, including:
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Diversion of natural water flow from a nearby creek.
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Construction of large pits to store diverted water.
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Clearing of natural vegetation.
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Terraces dug into the hillside for planting.
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Campsites, kitchens, and cultivation sites built in wilderness areas.
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Evidence of poaching activity.
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Nearly two miles of illegally maintained trails.
Investigation ongoing
No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.
