Police say it’s time to watch for grow ops

August 19, 2015 · 0 Comments

Summer is here and that means another season for outdoor marijuana grow operations.
Caledon OPP is asking for help identifying possible growers and grow locations.
Marijuana plants have already been planted during May and June. Growers head out to rural areas in search of property suitable for the illegal crop. Swamps, corn fields and wooded areas (especially near a river or stream) are common locations. The growers may even rent a rural property with acreage.
The growers return to maintain the plants about every two weeks until they are ready for harvesting in the fall.
Common indicators of an outdoor marihuana grow location may include:
• People who are not from the area all of a sudden showing up, claiming they are going for a walk or fishing. They may have two way radios, maps or a GPS.
• Bags of fertilizer, planting trays or chemicals located in remote areas.
• Plastic cups, other trays, soil and garbage bags left around.
• “No Trespassing” signs all of a sudden posted in an area (posted by the grower).
• Unattended vehicles parked on the shoulder of the road for several hours.
People who suspect marijuana may be growing in the area are asked to call police immediately. Often, these locations have booby traps set, and there is a risk of serious injury. The other danger could be confronting the growers, who may or may not be armed.
Those with information or who suspect an outdoor marihuana grow operation are asked to call OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or the Caledon Detachment at 905-584-2241. Be sure to include details of the location. All information will be confidential. They can also Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), where they may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.