A shallow, rocky stream with clear water, hoses and cables running across the creek bed, and a portable generator and fuel can set up on the gravel bank nearby.
A surface water diversion documented during a California Department of Fish and Wildlife cannabis enforcement operation in Mendocino County, Calif. on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. State scientists said the isolated creek pool also supported foothill yellow-legged frogs and juvenile winter steelhead. (CDFW via Bay City News)

MENDOCINO CO., 2/12/26 – The California Department of Fish and Wildlife reported Monday that it documented thousands of cannabis-related environmental violations across California in 2025, citing impacts to waterways, wildlife habitat and public lands tied largely to illegal cultivation. 

According to data released by the agency this month, environmental scientists recorded more than 2,100 violations in 27 counties last year. The figures provide a statewide overview of enforcement activity and were not broken down by county. Violations were associated with both licensed and illicit cannabis operations, though officials said illegal grows were more likely to involve unauthorized water use, banned pesticides and abandoned infrastructure. 

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Sarah Stierch covers breaking news and more for The Mendocino Voice. Reach her at sarah@mendovoice.com.