ON THE LOOKOUT FOR 'METH TRASH'

Fulton County Sheriff Wants Mushroom Hunters, Farmers To Be Wary

LEWISTOWN - Fulton County Sheriff Dan Daly wants the watchful eyes of
area mushroom hunters to be on the lookout for what he calls "meth
trash," which is often dumped outside by makers of the drug.

"It's not uncommon at all, especially at this time of year, for us to
get reports from mushroom hunters or farmers in their fields for the
first time who find meth trash," Daly said.

Makers of the drug, methamphetamine, often try to burn the trash,
which includes containers with tubing attached, modified tanks or
containers used to transport anhydrous ammonia, battery peelings,
solvent containers with unusual holes and blister packs from cold medication.

Anyone who finds those items shouldn't touch them because meth
ingredients can be dangerous, Daly said.

In 2001, a crackdown on meth makers in the area led to 37 people
being charged with federal methamphetamine conspiracy. The average
sentence for those convicted was 12 years. Daly said he thinks past
law enforcement efforts have helped in deterring others from making
the drug, but that his department is still actively investigating
cases of the drug's manufacture.

He also asks for the help of outdoor enthusiasts in locating
marijuana growing operations.

"Marijuana is a big money business for a lot of people," he said.
"These people don't care if their drug is sold to children or adults
as long as they get paid."

Cannabis plants are usually a brighter color of green than
surrounding vegetation, Daly said. Often the plants are started
indoors in early spring and transported outside later. Garden hoses,
potting soil and fertilizer are often found in the area of
cannabis-growing areas, Daly said.

Anyone finding illegal drugs or ingredients in Fulton County can
reach the Sheriff's Department at 547-2277.