Reno marijuana grow plant approved

Sierra Wellness Connection has received approval from the state to operate a marijuana cultivation plant in Reno.

A spokesman said that’s the first such approval issued by the state.

A spokesman said Sierra Wellness can now begin growing marijuana for use by Nevada patients who have a medical marijuana card and their caregivers.

“We’re certainly pleased that the state has acted judiciously to allow us to move forward and open our cultivation facility,” said Joe Crowley, the former UNR president who’s a member of the Sierra Wellness board.

Sierra Wellness Vice President Morgan Carr said its plan is to grow premium quality marijuana for those patients.

Sierra Wellness also has an application for a dispensary in Reno, which company officials say still is subject to local approvals.

That item is on the Reno City Council agenda for today.

Carr said plans are to open the dispensary in August. It will be located at 1605 East 2nd Street, Suite 103, adjacent to Renown Medical Center.