Forest Focus is an audio program about the National Forests in California. Episodes focus on issues such as ecological restoration, fire, recreation, law enforcement, tribal relations and much more. The show features specialists that work for the U.S. Forest Service and guests who provide other points of view on Forest Service issues.

Podcasts

Forest Focus Episode 5.

Marijuana on California's National Forests: Complete Podcast

August 20, 2009 In this episode of Forest Focus, John Heil of the Pacific Southwest Region Public Affairs Staff investigates the issue of marijuana cultivation and eradication on the National Forests in California by interviewing experts in the field from various agencies. (18:57)

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Episode 5 Segments

Photograph of Randy Moore standing outdoors.

Randy Moore—Regional Forester, U.S. Forest Service

The California Regional Forester gives an overview of the problems associated with marijuana cultivation on National Forest System lands. (1:05)

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Photograph of Patrick Foy.

Patrick Foy—Game Warden, California Department of Fish and Game

A California Game Warden discusses what is typically found on marijuana plantations, the profound impacts these sites have on wildlife and the environment, and what someone should do if they stumble upon a site. (4:04)

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Photograph of Russ Arthur.

Russ Arthur—Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Forest Service

The Law Enforcement Agent explains why National Forests are illegally used to grow marijuana, the national importance California plays in these activities, and some of the surprising things that are being found on discovered sites. (5:07)

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Photograph of Michael Gaston.

Michael Gaston—Supervisory Special Agent, U.S. Forest Service

The Forest Service Agent discusses why the general public should care about marijuana cultivation on our public lands. (2:10)

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Photograph of Tommy LaNier.

Tommy LaNier—Director, National Marijuana Initiative

The National Director explores the success of the eradication programs, and what are some of the difficulties in completely ending marijuana cultivation on public lands. (1:38)

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Photograph of Gil Kerlikowske.

Gil Kerlikowske—Director, Office for National Drug Control Policy

The National Drug Czar discusses the cooperation between various agencies on marijuana eradication efforts and the importance of telling this story. (1:31)

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Photograph of Shane Krogen.

Shane Krogen—Executive Director, High Sierra Volunteer Trail Crew

The leader of a volunteer organization discusses his program and how the public can become involved in the cleanup efforts. (2:33)

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