Rocky Mountain High
Oh! Canada’s mountain parks, offer a different experience for everyone. Millions of visitors enjoy our mountain parks, and this year you may see, or smell a newcomer: Cannabis. Who? Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, grass, pot or weed, was legalized for recreational use in Canada in October 2018. So, before you skedaddle at the first whiff of a lurking skunk, stop; it may be cannabis you smell, a.k.a. skunkweed. Cannabis has grown in popularity since the 1960’s. Recently this smelly weed is making big headlines for its medicinal qualities. Cannabis is also famous for producing hemp fiber used in paper, textiles, clothing, biodegradable plastics, paint, insulation, biofuel, food, and animal feed. A tall plant with a stiff upright stem and divided serrated leaves, fine hairs cover each leaf. Cannabis grows into either female or male plants. Generally speaking, the female plants are preferred because of the large resin-secreting flowers that are trimmed into round or pointed buds. The plant contains two compounds Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the main psychoactive compound in the plant best known for getting one ‘high’. CBD has multiple therapeutic uses and won’t intoxicate you. Whether you and cannabis have a long-standing relationship, or you’re a first-time user, ‘start low, go slow’ — a low dose, a bit at a time. If you feel like you’ve overdone it, sit back, relax, drinks lots of water, and the high will pass.
Cannabis is consumed in many ways including: Inhaling or smoking it; Vaporizing it; and/or Ingesting it. While cannabis can be ingested through edibles like cookies, brownies, gels, or gummies, don’t be too quick to look for your favourite cannabis laced snack. Edibles aren’t legal in Canada. Like alcohol, cannabis is off limits in some areas, and it’s best to be in the know. Understanding the local laws on usage is important when planning your trip, so you don’t incur a fine. Cannabis use is regulated under Canada’s Federal Cannabis Act. Each province/ territory is responsible for determining how cannabis is distributed and sold in their jurisdictions. Municipal borders can be obscure, so exercise caution when and where you’re consuming cannabis. It’s up to you to understand the restrictions of cannabis use in our mountain parks. The big thing to remember is that use is off limits in most public places. People consume cannabis for many reasons and the important thing to remember is BE SAFE. Grow, store, and consume cannabis responsibly. Please, remember to properly extinguish that joint, because only you can prevent wildfires. For more info visit: pc.gc.ca/en/voyage-travel/securite-safety/cannabis
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By: Kerri Robins
