It was a routine flyover recently that discovered a marijuana growing operation in the Jack Creek area of the Deschutes National Forest. On September 4 a joint operation was undertaken by the Central Oregon Emergency Response Team (CERT), the US Forest Service, Oregon State Police and the Deschutes and Jefferson County Sheriff's Offices to eradicate the plants. Sgt. Mitchell Meyer says about 3600 marijuana plants were seized and later destroyed by a USFS Fire Suppression crew. There was significant environmental damage to the area. In addition to a large amount of garbage and human waste, numerous trees cut down and a water source had been re-directed.

At this time, no suspects have been arrested, but Sgt. Mitchell says they are still investigating the area.