Cannabis revenue nears $450 million in Monterey County

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) Pacific Reserve Nursery came to Salinas in 2017. "We converted this greenhouse, which was full of 30 foot tall roses and was dilapidating," said Pacific Reserve Nursey Co-Owner, Brook Eagle

The cannabis farm spans 4.5 acres and is one of several now recognized by Monterey County in its yearly crop report.

The report shows that cannabis growers brought in around $450 million over 86 acres of land in 2019. The numbers rivaled some of the county's top crops like leaf lettuce and strawberries. Leaf lettuce cultivated around $840 million over 58,000 acres. Strawberries profited around $730 million over 9,000 acres.

"We're starting with this foundation. The foundation is 449 million. Where could it go? I think easily up to 700 million and possibly higher," said Coastal Growers Association Board Member, Aaron Johnson.

Johnson has advocated for cheaper taxes on cannabis in Monterey County. Greenhouses that grow cannabis are currently taxed $5 per square foot.

"It's becoming more abundant throughout the state. There's more competition. As we have to pay higher and higher taxes, it becomes harder to do business," said Eagle.

Cannabis growers generated around $15 million in taxes. The board of supervisors decided to contribute the money to the county's general fund where they said it will benefit a variety of community programs. "There's a lot of opportunity for the county to use it for positive things," said Eagle.