Monterey County isn''t exempt from the plague of drug culture. People are not only using meth in Monterey County, they''re manufacturing it--and polluting our environment in the process.

David Hoskins

Age: 52

Resides: Monterey

Occupation: Retired dancer

Do you know anyone who has used meth? Yes. Meth is the choice of drug among most people, especially younger people.

Are you aware of the side effects of methamphetamine production? It pollutes the air and uses toxic chemicals.

Do you think courts should view a meth producer differently that a marijuana grower? Meth is very dangerous. I don''t believe marijuana should be illegal. Caffeine is more destructive.

James Patty

Age: 21

Resides: Monterey

Occupation: Coffee roaster

Is meth a problem in Monterey County? I think it''s a big problem. It''s not something you see on the news. It''s completely underground.

Do you know anyone who has used meth? Yes. Every third person, just about.

What can been done to keep drug production out of neighborhoods? I think it''s more awareness than anything.

Julie Rosenbach

Age: 23

Resides: Monterey

Occupation: Student

Is meth a problem in Monterey County? I haven''t even heard of it being a problem.

Do you think local law enforcement is doing enough to eradicate drugs? I''d have to say yes, since I haven''t heard of any major drug problems.

In court, should a meth producer be viewed differently that a marijuana grower? Yes. There''s more of an argument for marijuana, since it has medical uses, and it''s not as addictive.

Keith Romero

Age: 19

Resides: Monterey

Occupation: Air Force

Is meth a problem in Monterey County? From what my brother said, it''s pretty bad. You''ve got a lot of bored, rich kids around here.

Are you aware of the side effects of methamphetamine production? Obviously you can lose brain cells just standing there.

Do you think local law enforcement is doing enough to eradicate drugs? I don''t think there''s much any law enforcement can do. Dealers and manufacturers know how to hide.

Brigette Cawiezell

Age: 29

Resides: Monterey

Occupation: Project manager

Is meth a problem in Monterey County? I think it''s probably pretty big, considering that it''s produced in the area.

What can be done to keep drug production out of neighborhoods? Awareness of the problem. Talking to kids at schools.

In court, should a meth producer be viewed differently that a marijuana grower? Yes. I think the two are completely different. There''s no medical value for crystal meth.