Raids target illegal cannabis grows in Bay Area, other counties over environmental damage

California wildlife officers raided two illegal cannabis grow sites in the Bay Area this summer as part of a wider crackdown on environmentally destructive operations tied to criminal organizations, state officials said.

In a statement Tuesday last week, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said its Marijuana Enforcement Team dismantled grows in San Mateo County and supported another raid in Santa Cruz County. Operatives reportedly eradicated thousands of cannabis plants hidden in watersheds and sensitive habitats, part of six operations spanning five counties.