Between July and September 2025, California’s Cannabis Task Force — officially known as the Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (UCETF) — achieved a major victory in the fight against illegal cannabis cultivation and sales. Through 17 multiagency operations across 15 counties, the Cannabis Task Force seized and destroyed more than 66.5 tons of illegal cannabis, valued at over $222 million, and eradicated 234,000 cannabis plants.
Governor Gavin Newsom praised the Cannabis Task Force for its success, emphasizing California’s commitment to consumer safety, environmental protection, and the integrity of the state’s legal cannabis market. “These enforcement actions send a clear message: illegal operations will not be tolerated,” Newsom stated.
Major Q3 Enforcement Results
The Cannabis Task Force reported the following accomplishments for the third quarter of 2025:
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133,372 pounds of illegal cannabis destroyed
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234,198 plants eradicated, saving an estimated 105 million gallons of water
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18 arrests made and 22 firearms confiscated
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Enforcement actions across 15 counties, including Monterey, Los Angeles, Kern, Alameda, and Shasta
The Cannabis Task Force’s largest operation occurred in Monterey County, where more than 38 tons of illegal cannabis valued at $125 million were destroyed. This historic operation, led by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and coordinated through the Cannabis Task Force, marked one of the most significant enforcement actions in California’s history.
According to Nicole Elliott, Director of the Department of Cannabis Control, the Cannabis Task Force is essential for protecting both the legal market and California communities.
Multiagency Collaboration at Work
The Cannabis Task Force operates as a powerful collaboration between state, local, and federal agencies, including the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), State Parks, CalDOJ, CDCR, CDTFA, and the National Guard Counterdrug Task Force. Their combined expertise has made the Cannabis Task Force a national model for coordinated enforcement.
CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham highlighted the environmental benefits of the Cannabis Task Force’s work: “Illegal grow sites devastate ecosystems and threaten wildlife. The Cannabis Task Force ensures our natural resources are protected while enhancing public safety.”
About the Cannabis Task Force
Established in 2022 by Governor Newsom, the Cannabis Task Force is co-chaired by the DCC and CDFW, and coordinated by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES). Since its formation, the Cannabis Task Force has destroyed over 325 tons of illicit cannabis valued at $913 million across 28 counties, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to a safe, legal, and sustainable cannabis industry in California.
