PASSAIC COUNTY — New Jersey is proud of its produce, which the Garden State labels as Jersey Fresh.

The moniker has taken on a new meaning in northern New Jersey, where two suburban towns have seen a recent rise in homegrown marijuana out in the open.

Police in Ringwood and Wanaque this month confiscated 78 pot plants growing in yards.

Police charged the homeowners with possession and intent to distribute.

Ringwood police Detective James Rapp says the town's rural setting could make it tempting for those who want to grow marijuana.

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