McLeod County approves conditional use permit for limited cannabis cultivation (Wild Fields)

McLeod County commissioners on April 7 approved Conditional Use Permit 26-03 for John and Martine Ackland to cultivate cannabis in an existing accessory building on a 61.38-acre parcel in Lind Township, to be known as "Wild Fields." Environmental Services staff said the Hutchinson Area Joint Planning Board recommended approval with multiple conditions, and county staff confirmed security and state licensing requirements would apply.

Key conditions spelled out in the recommendation include: no on-site processing, manufacturing or retail sales; a cap of five non-resident employees before a new CUP is required; odor controls so odors are not readily detectable at property lines; indoor wastewater captured in on-site holding tanks and disposed of at licensed wastewater facilities (no on-site disposal); black and gray water treated per Minnesota Rule 780; and compliance with Office of Cannabis Management Rules (Rule 9810) and Minnesota Statute 342 provisions referenced in the planning report.

Commissioners said neighbors had attended the joint planning hearing and staff had addressed questions. Commissioner Wright moved to approve the CUP with the listed conditions; motion carried.