California cops bust massive pot growing operation

(KYMA, KECY/CNN) - Sheriff's deputies and National Guard members in Fresno County, California discovered an elaborate and illegal marijuana growing operation.

They said it was the biggest they've ever seen. The smell is what led deputies there.

Deputies said nobody was on the property when they raided it.

Detectives hauled out more that 21,000 plants growing in 18 greenhouses. The plants were so large and crammed together, they originally thought there were twice as many.

The street value for that much marijuana could be as high as $80 million.

People can grow marijuana in California, but not outdoors and not more than a dozen plants, except in cities offering manufacturing permits.

There's no penalty for the landowner unless deputies can prove that person was involved in the actual cultivation.