Large Marijuana Grow Found Near Whitewater River

More than 2,000 marijuana plants were discovered growing near the Whitewater River this week along with an irrigation system set up to sustain them via the waterway, officials told Patch Friday.

The discovery was made Wednesday, when a citizen reported the possible grow operation to authorities, according to Agent Miguel Garcia with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

"Agents utilizing all-terrain vehicles met with a BLM Ranger within the vicinity," Garcia said.  "After reviewing maps and discussing area information, agents began a systematic search of the area and discovered irrigation tubing leading out of the Whitewater River."

Agents followed that tubing, which lead to the discovery of an outdoor marijuana growing operation, Garcia said.

Officials say there were approximately 2,000 plants growing in the area, in all stages– from seedlings to plants measuring up to two feet high.  Border Patrol agents and the Bureau of Land Management cleared them out, according to Garcia.

Also in the area, agents found two abandoned campsites, tools, a two way radio, irrigation tubing, and fertilizer, according to Garcia.  No arrests were made.

"This incident is a reminder of the importance of reporting suspicious activity and threats within our communities," said El Centro Sector Chief Patrol Agent Carla L. Provost.  "Working together and sharing information has removed this dangerous threat from any further harm to our community."

The El Centro border patrol sector is continuing to investigate the case along with the DEA.

If you ever want to report suspicious activity, call the Border Community Threat Hotline at 1-800-901-2003.