HABITAT -- Workers in the major project to shore up island erosion and restore wildlife habitat in Idaho's Clark Fork Delta are doing a little unexpected weeding.

Illegal marijuana growing plots have been discovered two consecutive years, the Idaho Fish and Game Department reports.

Several patches were discovered last summer during vegetation planting and monitoring efforts in delta islands at the northeast end of Lake Pend Oreille. The patches were reported to authorities and were removed, says Phil Cooper, IFG spokesman in Coeur d'Alene. 

More illegal marijuana patches have been found this season and were recently destroyed, he said.

"The Clark Fork River delta islands are popular with canoeists, kayakers and other recreationists, and it is an important hunting area in the fall," Cooper said. "Due to the fact that grow patches are sometimes protected by the growers, recreationists heading to the islands are advised to stay clear of patches of marijuana plants they may encounter."

"Individuals in the area who see illegal patches of marijuana are encouraged to contact a local law enforcement agency."