17,800 POT PLANTS ERADICATED IN LOS PADRES FOREST THIS MONTH

Ventura County sheriff's deputies and other law enforcement officers
have eradicated more than 17,800 marijuana plants in three gardens
this month in the Los Padres National Forest north of Ojai,
authorities said.

Officials cautioned hikers and others to be careful when walking
through the Los Padres, lest they stumble on a marijuana garden. Given
the millions of dollars in potential profits, "growers are becoming
bolder in protecting their investments," sheriff's Sgt. Mike Horne
said.

"If you are in the backcountry and happen upon a marijuana garden,
leave as quickly and quietly as you can -- run if necessary," Horne
said.