Merritt RCMP shut down an outdoor marijuana grow op last Wednesday, seizing 529 marijuana plants.
The plants were between one and three feet tall, and the bust was the result of an investigation conducted after a tip.
Police believed the plants to have a street value of more than $500,000.
The grow-op was located in a forested area south of Merritt.
Mounties said about 30 trees in the area were cut to provide space and sun for the plants. They also said there was a large quantity of garbage scattered around the area.
At this time of year, RCMP often receive calls about this type of grow-op from backcountry users who stumble upon them, RCMP Const. Tracy Dunsmore wrote in a press release.
The plants are more noticeable because they’re ready to be harvested in the summer, Dunsmore said.
Police are continuing their investigation and no charges had been laid as of press time on Friday.
RCMP are reminding people to be cautious of the dangers associated with grow-ops and to contact local police if they come across them.
