FIVE HOURS NORTH, A Memoir of Outlaw Farming on California’s Cannabis Frontier by Ty Kearns (Book Review #1915)

In “Five Hours North,” Ty Kearns takes readers on a colorful and gripping journey into the heart of Humboldt County’s cannabis culture during the green rush of 2008. This memoir, subtitled “A Memoir of Outlaw Farming on California’s Cannabis Frontier,” chronicles Kearns’ unexpected transformation from an everyday college student to a cannabis CEO navigating the treacherous and exhilarating world of outlaw farming.

The story unfolds with a set of rules that Kearns had to live by: never give anyone your real name, never share your secret with loved ones, and always be prepared for the unexpected. These rules set the tone for the dangerous and clandestine lifestyle that Kearns adopts in his pursuit of financial stability amid the economic turmoil of the Great Recession.

Raised in the “Emerald Triangle,” Kearns initially wants nothing to do with the cannabis industry that has ensnared so many around him. However, financial pressures lead him to his eccentric Uncle Bob, who introduces him to local growers. Kearns quickly finds himself leading a double life, balancing his college education with the demands of running a secret cannabis farm five hours north in the rugged mountains.

The memoir vividly describes the challenges Kearns faces: natural disasters, wildlife encounters, and the constant threat of law enforcement. As he becomes one of the most successful growers on the mountain, Kearns must also navigate the complexities of relationships, mental health struggles, and the environmental impact of his operations. The characters he meets along the way, from “trimmigrants” to pot-star groupies, add depth and intrigue to his tale.

Today, Kearns is the CEO of SEVEN LEAVES, a fully licensed cannabis cultivation operation known for its commitment to sustainable growing practices. His journey from the shadows of outlaw farming to the forefront of legal and eco-friendly cannabis production is a testament to resilience and adaptability.

“Five Hours North” is a coming-of-age story where the truth is indeed stranger than fiction. Kearns’ memoir captures the essence of a bygone era in the cannabis industry, offering readers an insider’s perspective on the wild and unpredictable path to success in California’s green rush.

Written by Jeyran Main

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