Ecological Effects of Cannbis
Many states in the western U.S. are decriminalizing recreational cannabis, but the effects of this policy change on the environment are largely unknown. Because cannabis is often grown in rural regions, particularly in Northern California, there are concerns about its impact on wildlife, especially from the rapid rise in greenhouse cultivation.
Research is underway at HREC that examines the effects of greenhouse lighting and noise pollution on multiple wildlife taxa including mammals, birds, and invertebrates. Experimental noise and light simulators have been erected across the site, allowing for data collection on the direct and indirect impacts to the surrounding ecological communities. Results will help to bring an environmental perspective to the discussions around best management practices for cannabis.
Researcher Spotlight: Phoebe Parker-Shames and Dr. Justin Brashares
With a focus on the role of humans within ecological systems, Phoebe's research lies at the intersection of policy and management decisions that affect community ecology, landscape ecology, and wildlife conservation. Phoebe is a PhD candidate and National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow within the Brashares Lab Group and you can read more about her work on Research Gate or follow her on Twitter. Justin is a Professor and G.R. & W.M. Goertz Chair of Environmental Science and his work aims to understand how human consumption of wild animals and conversion of natural habitats affects the dynamics and persistence of animal communities.
Learn More!
Through scientific research and engagement with community, government, and academic entities, The Cannabis Research Center at UC Berkeley works to advance understanding of cannabis agriculture in socio-ecological systems at local, national, and global scales.
