Tucked into the rich agricultural heritage of South Hero, Vermont, Sunset Lake Cannabis is doing more than growing exceptional cannabis, they're cultivating a movement rooted in sustainability, community, and regenerative farming.
Born from the same land and leadership that powers Sunset Lake CBD, this farmer-owned and sun-grown cannabis brand is helping reshape what responsible cultivation looks like in the Green Mountain State.
From Dairy to Dispensary
“Our roots are in Vermont dairy," says Sam Bellavance, founder of Sunset Lake Cannabis. "My family's farm was producing milk and cream for Ben & Jerry's and through their Caring Dairy program we diversified our farm, first with hemp and now with cannabis."
With Vermont’s legalization of adult-use cannabis in 2021, the Sunset Lake team, Sam Bellavance, Cy Kupersmith, and T.J. Anania, expanded their mission. Already known for their successful CBD line, the trio saw an opportunity to grow premium recreational cannabis while staying true to their agricultural values.
At Sunset Lake Cannabis, sustainability isn’t a buzzword, it’s a business model. Every decision is guided by a commitment to protecting the land, reducing carbon emissions, and uplifting the local economy.
All plants are sun-grown in living soil, no artificial lights, no energy-intensive grow rooms.
They’re Vermont’s first Climate Neutral Certified cannabis company, thanks to a partnership with Change Climate, an international nonprofit.
Fields are cover-cropped with clover and timothy grass to nourish the soil and support pollinators.
Through crop rotation, parcels of land are given time to rest and regenerate between harvests.
“Farming is an outdoor activity,” says Rev Baker, Director of Marketing at Sunset Lake Cannabis. “We’re proud to let the Vermont sun do the work, it's better for the planet and better for the plant.”
Serving Vermont with Purpose
Beyond their environmental mission, Sunset Lake Cannabis is deeply invested in Vermont’s people and future. From supporting local food shelves and disaster relief to donating to causes focused on criminal justice reform, human rights, and land stewardship, the company walks its talk.
They’re active members of multiple community and trade groups, including Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR), Vermont Growers Association, Cannabis Retailers Association of Vermont (CRAV), and Vermont NORML. Co-founder Sam Bellavance serves on the board of the CRAV, while Rev Baker sits on the board of Vermont NORML.
“We’re not just growers, we’re advocates, neighbors, and stewards,” Baker says. “We believe in a cannabis industry that’s fair, sustainable, and deeply rooted in community.”
Visit Lake Effect Vermont
If you’re curious about sun-grown cannabis or looking to support local agriculture with your purchase, stop by Lake Effect Vermont at 6 South Street, South Hero, VT. Open seven days a week, the dispensary offers discounts to veterans and medical card holders, as well as exclusive in-store products.
You’ll find premium cannabis at a fair price, grown by the same farmers who brought you Sunset Lake CBD, with the same integrity and commitment to quality. We also carry a variety of products from small growers and makers across Vermont, as part of our commitment to supporting the broader Vermont cannabis community.
