CRESTLINE – (INT) - Illegal drug trafficking organizations are responsible for an increasing number marijuana cultivations turning up in the San Bernardino National Forest.

In the latest, lawmen found several plots of marijuana growing in the forest near Panorama Point in the Crestline area. Camping equipment and a large abundance of trash was evidence that the suspects had been living near, and caring for, the large marijuana grow. They had fled and there were no arrests.

There is growing concern over the environmental damage inflicted on the forest.

Earlier, an estimated 7,800 marijuana plants were found growing in plots near Fredalba Creek below Smiley Park at Running Springs.

The growers had cleared away the natural foliage and added fertilizers and toxic pesticides. The chemicals seep into the ground and contaminate the ground water and natural wildlife. Camping equipment and a large abundance of trash was evidence that the suspects had been living near, and caring for, the large marijuana grows, authorities said.

Story Date: August 19, 2017