Pubdate: Tue, 15 Mar 2016 Source: Appeal-Democrat (Marysville, CA) Copyright: 2016 Appeal-Democrat Contact: https://appeal-democrat-dot-com.bloxcms-ny1.com/site/forms/online_services/letter/ Website: http://www.appeal-democrat.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1343 Author: Sheila Gee YUBA COUNTY POT Last week, a conflagration erupted at a residence in Browns Valley. I saw this fire and was stunned by its ferocity on such a rainy night. The fire, which completely destroyed the house, resulted from the alleged cultivation of marijuana and production of hash oil. This event clearly illustrates the need for stringent regulation of marijuana cultivation and heightened enforcement of grow bans. This was an industrial accident, and if it had happened at a Richmond refinery or a nuclear power plant in New Jersey, there would be outrage against the corporation responsible. Because it occurred in a personal residence, we will hear only strident complaints about infringement upon personal freedom should we dare point out the dangers of personal grows and the inherent "add-on" activities. Let's all be honest: Personal grows are not for cancer-stricken patients seeking relief from treatment side-effects. Very few people are concerned with the personal use of marijuana anymore, but the cultivation must be left to professionals in a controlled environment away from residential areas. The incident this week could have, and may well, occur in May or August and when it does, a tinder-dry district will burn out of control. I have no complaint with what anyone does in his own home, unless it endangers my life or property. Sheila Gee Browns Valley - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom