Recorder Staff Report
Raid: It’s the first major haul of the year in park.

The year’s first major raid on marijuana growing in Sequoia National Park took place Tuesday when more than 17,300 immature marijuana plants and a large nursery capable of producing thousands more were destroyed. Two arrests were made in connection with the raid, the National Park Service reports. The identities of those arrested were not released.

“As the growers have changed their tactics, so have we,” Chief Ranger JD Swed said. “The National Park Service is committed to protecting these national treasures and this wilderness for the American people. We will do what it takes to stop this degradation of our natural resources.”

The investigation surrounding Tuesday’s raid was continuing, but the Forest Service reports the marijuana gardens are similar to those conducted by organized Mexican drug cartels, which have been found in the local parks since 2001.

A National Park Service tactical team comprised of rangers from several national parks participated in Tuesday’s raid. A helicopter unit from U.S. Customs and Border Protection based in Riverside provided air support. Fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides and evidence of weapons were found in the marijuana gardens, the Park Service reports.

The site had extensive infrastructure including several camps, enough gear and food for several people to live in site for extended periods of time and an irrigation system using thousands of feet of hose.

Since 2001, more than 141,000 marijuana plants have been found and destroyed in Sequoia National Park. Anyone with information about illegal activity at the park, or who would like to report suspicious activity there, is asked to call (888) NPS-CRIME. Callers may speak directly to a ranger or remain anonymous.

Contact The Recorder newsroom at 784-5000, Ext. 1044.