SPOTTING MARIJUANA FIELDS MADE EASIER BY DROUGHT

NORMAN - The continuing drought makes it easier for Oklahoma Bureau of
Narcotics agents to spot suspected marijuana plots from the air. The
plants are often the only areas that appear to have been watered. From
1,000 feet up, the green shine stands out among dead grass and weeds.

The bureau displayed its equipment and firepower for law enforcement,
community leaders, judges and the media at Max Westheimer Field on
Wednesday. Director Darrell Weaver said marijuana eradication is a
community issue and should not be solely the concern of law
enforcement. Indeed, it is a community problem that will take a
changing mindset. Marijuana cultivation is big business in some areas
of the state. Most of the larger growing operations are located in the
eastern parts of the state, but Cleveland County has numerous plots.

Despite the success of medical marijuana efforts in California and
decriminalization in other states, Oklahoma shows no inclination to be
in the business of legalized marijuana cultivation. There have been
some meager attempts to introduce legislation allowing the
legalization of marijuana, but those bills don't seem to ever get any
traction here.

The department's helicopter will fly over spots, mostly with the
intent of suppressing growing operations. They don't do much in urban
areas, since that kind of eradication takes tips and follow-up from
law enforcement.