There’s an effort forming to help protect local cannabis producers called the Kootenay United Cannabis Association. Jim Leslie with The Kootenay’s Medicine Tree in Nelson and Grand Forks is a member. He says part of what they want to do is help micro producers in the area.
“We’re looking forward to actually seeing if we can make any additional moves positively with provincial and federal government to try and make sure that our local, micro cultivators and processors of these very high quality cannabis products are included in the regulations as fast as possible.”
Right now there’s no provisions for private stores to buy directly from local producers, as they have to do so through the liquor distribution branch. Leslie says there’s been some concern about the quality of the product as some was found to have mould.
He also has concerns about the legalization process in general in terms of the impacts on medicinal clients. There’s a diverse range of products that won’t be available for the next year. Leslie says he would prefer to stay as a medical cannabis retailer; however, is being forced to transition to the recreational market. Once his store is licensed he hopes to try and obtain a medical license from the federal government.
