Quiet start in Humboldt County on first day of legal marijuana sales

An hour before Ecocann Dispensary in Eureka opened its doors, only one customer was holding down a spot in line outside the three-month -old dispensary that was soon to open as the first permitted recreational shop in Humboldt County. less An hour before Ecocann Dispensary in Eureka opened its doors, only one customer was holding down a spot in line outside the three-month -old dispensary that was soon to open as the first permitted recreational ... more Photo: Bill Disbrow / SFGATE Photo: Bill Disbrow / SFGATE Image 1 of / 13 Caption Close Quiet start in Humboldt County on first day of legal marijuana sales 1 / 13 Back to Gallery

An hour before Ecocann Dispensary in Eureka opened its doors, only one customer was holding down a spot in line outside the three-month-old dispensary that was soon to open as the first permitted recreational shop in Humboldt County. Laura Montagna said she had no idea what she was going to buy when doors opened at noon, but she just wanted to experience the moment.

“I don’t usually smoke marijuana. I just thought it would be interesting to be here,” said Montagna, a game store owner who was not familiar with the wide variety of products waiting for her inside. “I have no idea what I’m going to buy.”

The subdued response was no real surprise to Ecocann Manager Ray Markland.

“That’s Humboldt County for you,” said Markland. “They don’t conform. They want to show up on their own time.”

Markland said the shop, which sits midway between Highway 101 and the historic waterfront on F Street has a clear view in from the street so that people can see a legitimate business going on inside. On Monday morning, dozens of people could be seen peeking through those windows, but nobody was willing to line up behind Montagna.

“They’ll probably show up at 12:15,” said Markland. “But it’s exciting. We’re going to have a whole lot of new faces on the legal cannabis side.”

Markland's prediction wasn't far off. Around noon a line started to form around the block.