The first medical marijuana dispensary in western Massachusetts may be open for business as soon as next week in Northampton. The operators have been busy, signing up new patients, training new employees, and of course, producing a lot of marijuana.
The marijuana is grown at a facility in Franklin, Massachusetts, and it’s nothing like your crazy uncle’s backyard pot patch.
Pharmaceutical-grade cannabis
Before entering the facility, visitors have to take what’s called an air shower, which removes pollen and other contaminants. After a person steps inside, 34 silver nozzles blast air all over him or her. In addition, a visitor must wear a white lab suit and booties.
The reason for the procedures are simple, according to Norton Arbelaez. He works for New England Treatment Access and also co-owns a Colorado company that sells both medical and recreational marijuana.
