Pubdate: Wed, 25 Jul 2012
Source: Edmonton Sun (CN AB)
Copyright: 2012 Canoe Limited Partnership.
Contact:  http://www.edmontonsun.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/135
Author: Allison Salz

GROW-OP SEASON

As if it wasn't hot enough, Mounties are cranking up the heat on rural
grow operations.

The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team, comprised of officers
across the province, are asking residents to be their eyes and ears
this summer as they aim to crack down on rural and outdoor marijuana
grow operations.

"It's a different growing season right now, based on our climate,"
said Acting Staff Sgt. Ray Savage, with ALERT's Green Team North.

"We only enjoy so many warm months of the year, so it's basically
prime-growing season."

Aside from being illegal, RCMP say the operations pose significant
safety risks.

Savage says residents can keep their eyes out for signs, like those
who move in to the area for just the summer months, any shelters that
were not there before, and even any newly formed paths.

"They know their communities and neighbourhoods best. So if there is
any suspicious behaviour that's out of the ordinary, they should call
Crimestoppers or their local detachment," said Acting Staff Sgt. Ray
Savage, with ALERT.

"While many people think grow ops are limited to cities, growers are
drawn to rural areas where they feel their activity is more concealed
and may go unnoticed."

Alert Green Teams seized more than 57,000 marijuana plants between
April 1, 2011 and March 31, 2012 - which carry a street value of $69
million.
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MAP posted-by: Matt