Illegal Marijuana Cultivation in Northern California

Rep. James Gallagher, R-Calif., has urged FBI Director Kash Patel to address illegal marijuana cultivation in Northern California. This request follows concerns from the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office about rampant illegal cultivation and the involvement of illegal immigrant labor.

Gallagher’s letter, reported by Fox News Digital, highlights the impact of these operations on local communities. He observes that many rural properties are now crowded with makeshift greenhouses known as ‘hoop houses.’ These greenhouses cultivate marijuana using groundwater from nearby wells.

Gallagher notes several negative outcomes. Residents experience water shortages, posing a threat to safety. Local farmers and ranchers face challenges with groundwater competition and potential contamination of agricultural land.

The letter provides estimates of up to 7,000 illegal growers in just the Mount Shasta Vista subdivision. Additionally, illegal cultivation has spilled over onto federal lands, including Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

In 2025, Siskiyou authorities eradicated 332,871 illegal marijuana plants and seized 54,070 pounds of marijuana. Gallagher expressed particular concern about financial connections to Chinese organized crime networks.

Gallagher states, “In Siskiyou County, investigators have traced cultivation properties to individuals residing outside the county, while those managing the grows often have no apparent ownership interest.”

He referenced a 2018 federal investigation. This investigation led to the forfeiture of over 100 properties in Sacramento, tied to an illegal marijuana operation funded by Chinese money.

Environmental damage is another worry. Gallagher mentions the use of toxic pesticides at the grow sites, many banned in the U.S. and labeled in Chinese, indicating illegal importation.

Siskiyou County investigators identified 27 pesticide compounds at the sites. These chemicals could endanger residents, law enforcement, and first responders.