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DECKERS, Colo.—A rancher searching for stray cattle in a forest southwest of Denver stumbled upon a marijuana growing operation that included living quarters and an irrigation system fed by a diverted stream.
Jefferson County authorities say they seized 5,100 plants weighing 1 ton on July 9. They say it had an estimated street value of $2.5 million.
Sheriff’s spokeswoman Jacki Kelley said Friday each plant had an individual irrigation drip line in a field that stretched for three-quarters of a mile. It was in steep, rugged terrain in the Pike National Forest.
A shack-like house at the site was stocked with food, clothing, sleeping bags and cooking utensils.
No suspects have been identified.
