Oregon is one step closer to fully implementing its recreational marijuana industry by January 2017.  The Oregon Liquor Control Commission approved its first recreational marijuana licenses Friday, approving eight growers under the new regulatory system. The agency was tasked with overseeing Oregon’s recreational cannabis industry.

“These licensees reflect the pioneering spirit Oregon is known for,” said Rob Patridge, OLCC Chair in a release Friday. “They come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences and possess the entrepreneurial spirit of this industry.”

The eight licenses were issued to growers in Lane, Tillamook, Washington, Clackamas, Jackson and Josephine counties and include a mix of large and medium scale indoor, mixed and outdoor cultivation growers, the agency said. The licensed growers can begin operating under the OLCC’s authority once they pay their annual licensing fee. [Read more at OPB.com]