Are you aware there are three large scale (Tier 11) marijuana cultivation facilities being planned for an agricultural field at 446 Country Club Road in Greenfield? I’m not sure if you’re familiar with this area of town, but this is smack dab in the middle of a residential area and along the area’s regional bike trail.
I recently attended the public outreach meeting for this project. After attending, I realized I didn’t know enough about the effects of such an operation. I immediately started looking into the health and environmental impacts of these types of projects. My research has left me extremely concerned regarding the placement of this project. I feel anxious for everyone in this neighborhood and for the local wildlife/environment.
I don’t understand how this type of proposal is on the table for such a large residential area bordered by protected wetlands. The representatives reported they don’t have a small residential build let alone one of this size in such close proximity with residents. In the meeting, it was clear they had no plan on what would be needed to mitigate the oppressive odors emitted by the cannabis plants with residents living so close. Options they discussed are harmful to the environment (ground-level ozone generators and misting with chemicals) and to people/animals breathing in these substances. From the reading I’ve done, it’s impossible to remove the extreme odors (think of it like families of skunks living in your house) and it’s upsetting to think that attempts to mask it will be even more detrimental.
We need to do something about this. This isn’t just the destruction of beautiful scenic vistas, this is our public health and our environmental health at risk. This is our water systems, our wetlands and wildlife at risk. This is our property values, quality of life and regional bike trail at risk.
Kimberly Babineau
Greenfield