Though desert pot does require enormous amounts of water, growers have discovered that that they can buy or steal all they need. In some cases, illegal pot farms sprawl across the desert floor like corporate agricultural compounds, seemingly springing up overnight. As a result, the Los Angeles County Fire Department ordered the removal of 100 hydrants in the Antelope Valley. Patricia Horwath keeps an eye on illegal pot farms near her home in Joshua Tree. Recently, state wildlife authorities reported that the bodies of two black bears were found at desert pot farms — victims of such poisoning.

Source: Los Angeles Times July 11, 2021 12:00 UTC