Cannabis legalization has transformed pot farming from a risky black market endeavor into to a legitimate career choice. However, gigantic and widespread grow operations still consume a hefty amount of energy, and many have also expressed concerns that the budding industry could have a negative impact on the environment. But two Colorado ranchers named Rob and Linda Trotter have accomplished a major feat that could set a precedent for eco-conscious cannabis cultivators everywhere.
The couple has launched Pot Zero, a marijuana cultivation project that they claim creates zero carbon footprint, producing the most environmentally-friendly and sustainably grown pot on the market. The grow operation is located TNT Ranch outside of Gypsum, Colorado, using snowmelt water that is locally sourced from a mountain that is 12,500 feet above sea level.
This special water supply is called “Snow to Grow,” helping to create clean and fertile mountain loam soil for their cannabis crops. The marijuana plants also receive intense ultraviolet light, while their Scottish Highland cattle herd provides the organic manure needed to grow.
"We are very passionate about having the cleanest, greenest and most sustainable operation in Colorado. From an energy point of view, we're sustainable. From an environmental point of view, we're sustainable," Rob Trotter said.
In the past, the Trotters primarily used their ranch for cattle and hay, but soon shifted to cannabis once legalization took effect in the state. Since venturing into marijuana cultivation back in May 2015, the ranchers have made sure that their operation is 100 percent sustainable, leaves no carbon footprint behind, and utilizes zero chemicals. On top of that, the pair of growers is completely focused on producing strains with medicinal value, particularly those that treat pain and other physical conditions.
Thus far, these sustainable pot crops have been used for both flower and CO2-based hash oil. Pot Zero products are available at all Root RX locations and other select stores across Colorado. Although the clean mountain environment and loving care provided by these experienced ranchers are can be hard to replicate elsewhere, their project could potentially offer a starting point to those looking to keep cultivation as green as possible.
