Pubdate: Sun, 21 Feb 2016 Source: Ukiah Daily Journal, The (CA) Copyright: 2016 The Ukiah Daily Journal Contact: http://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/feedback Website: http://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/581 Author: Philip Frase HIGHER POT PLANT COUNT NEEDED To the Editor: Having attended the Board of Supervisors Ad Hoc Committee on cannabis in Willits on Feb. 6, a rousing voice of approval was given to Tim Bloke's statement that a 25-plant count would no longer viable. Comparing us to Humboldt and beyond have much larger plant counts. BOS representatives were encouraged to present the public's will and to not back down to federal stance. Casey O'Niel made a good case for "ministerial permitting" to protect the small farmer from overbearing regulations above state guidelines. Many good people voiced concerns about lack of direction after 19 years of medical allowance, and offered practical solutions for a viable ordinance. I take issue with the disparity in federal government regulations: The Feds grow and distribute cannabis to their few dying patients who have the only prescriptions. (Every other patient is by doctors recommendations). The Feds hold patents on cannabis products, having stated medicinal values. The Feds allow three states recreational use. The Feds allow 17-25 states medicinal use. The Feds prosecute in all other states. I take issue with the disparity of federal government policy. N.I.D.A., which oversees government distribution of cannabis to research has recognized the multi-faceted use of cannabis products. Schedule I narcotics for cannabis has to be removed from our acceptance level as a society. Methamphetamine, morally corrupting, detrimental to health and the well being of all society has been lowered to a misdemeanor. Explaining this mind set to our creator, will not wash. Good herb is bad, poisonous chemicals are OK is a mindset of the devil. We need agreement with the Feds to not prosecute small farmers, including a transporting more than two pounds to dispenseries, or market. The D.E.A. should get more busy busting meth kitchens and keeping marijuana south of the border. Please wake up and turn this around. - - Philip Frase, Bell Springs - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom