Lt. John Nores is a retired 28-year special operations game warden, co-host of the Warden’s Watch podcast, and author of Hidden War: How Special Operations Game Wardens are Reclaiming America's Wildlands from the Drug Cartels. What We Discuss with Lt. John Nores: Even though cannabis is now legal in California, drug cartels operate massive, illegal trespass grow operations on public land across the state. Trespass grow operations cause long-lasting environmental damage, generate pollution, steal water and other resources from the communities where they're raised. 6,000-10,000 people are employed by the cartels to establish and maintain these sites. Nearby residents who happen to cross paths with these criminals — even on their own property — are in danger of being assaulted or killed with little to no legal repercussions. DEA and game wardens who monitor this activity have the highest risk of death in the line of duty among law enforcement. And much more... Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/821 This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course! Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

John Nores, a former California Game Warden with extensive experience in combating cartel drug operations, shares gripping insights into the hidden narco death zones of Northern California. He details the violent confrontations he faced while patrolling illegal cannabis grow sites. The conversation also explores the web of crime linking wildlife trafficking with drug cartels, the environmental devastation caused by illegal cultivation, and the challenges in enforcing laws amid evolving cartel tactics. Nores highlights the pressing need for inter-agency communication and policy reform.

John Nores is a dedicated game warden with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife who co-developed specialized teams to combat the effects of illegal marijuana operations on wildlife. He discusses the extreme challenges faced when confronting drug cartels and the environmental devastation caused by their grow sites. Nores highlights the complex relationship between cannabis legalization and black market activities, alongside the vital role of law enforcement in protecting ecosystems. He also shares insights on hunting conservation and the innovative strategies for wildlife protection.