Central Coast Agriculture, a prominent cannabis production company in Lompoc, has agreed to a $1.3 million settlement with the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District for breaching air quality regulations.
Between 2020 and 2023, the facilities located at 1201 West Chestnut Avenue and 1200 West Laurel Avenue were identified as significant sources of volatile organic compounds, which are key contributors to ozone formation during warm, sunny conditions.
The facility is among the largest of its kind within the county and state. Over several years, it operated without the required permits or advanced pollution control technologies, according to Aeron Arlin Genet, the executive director of the APCD.
In the year 2020, the lab emitted 135 tons of gases that lead to ozone formation, an amount double that produced by all county gas stations combined. Ozone exposure can cause respiratory issues like sore throats and coughing.
“This settlement amount underscores the severity of the violations and the volume of emissions over the past three years,” stated Arlin Genet.
Thomas Martin, CEO of Central Coast Agriculture, avoided a shutdown order in October by submitting a complete permit application. The lab now employs 122 people and complies with regulations, incorporating cutting-edge air purification technology.
“This ordeal has been enlightening and has drastically improved how we manage our operations,” Martin commented. “We value the guidance from the APCD, which has helped us meet compliance standards and resolve this issue.”
Unlike typical cannabis labs that release gases into the air, this lab recaptures and reuses 97% of its solvent use. By September, it is expected to establish new benchmarks for the industry in California.
“We are pleased with the progress made,” Arlin Genet remarked. “CCA has shown genuine commitment to reducing their emissions.”
Additional Penalties Pending
Aside from the $1.3 million due by Friday, the company also faces penalties for using portable generators at its Buellton cultivation sites from 2020 to mid-2021, which emitted diesel fumes for nearly a year. The generators have been removed, and discussions about fines are ongoing with the county District Attorney’s Office.
Formerly, Central Coast Agriculture was a major player in the local cannabis market, with operations across 54 acres. Recently, Martin decided against renewing a business license for a 24-acre cultivation area. However, the company continues to cultivate cannabis on 30 acres.
Of the current settlement, $325,000 will be allocated to the district’s Clean Air Fund to enhance Lompoc’s air quality. Additional funds will support expanded inspections of cannabis facilities to ensure fair regulation across the county, Arlin Genet added.
Melinda Burns, an investigative journalist with four decades of experience, offers her reports for free as a community service to Santa Barbara County publications.
OTHER NEWS: Humboldt Cannabis Farmer Fined, $1.75 Million for Violations
