Vicksburg’s economy is witnessing a significant transformation as it welcomes the cannabis industry. Just north of downtown, Big River Cannabis Company is emerging from a retrofitted warehouse. Founded by California native Phen Schlett and Jackson’s Reed Nicholas, this large-scale cannabis cultivation facility is in its early stages, awaiting state certification and lab testing to legally distribute medical cannabis in Mississippi.
Schlett anticipates that they will begin operations by early spring, expressing gratitude for the chance to rehabilitate an existing structure. “We’ve been out there building since July 2022,” Schlett noted. “Many companies in Mississippi have had to start from scratch. We focus on reuse and revitalization rather than demolition.”
Although Schlett himself does not use cannabis, he acknowledges the profound impact medical cannabis has had on a loved one. With over a decade of experience in the industry in California, Schlett and Nicholas perceived a promising opportunity in Mississippi’s nascent medical cannabis market. Schlett’s background has been instrumental in shaping local expectations surrounding cannabis cultivation and distribution.
Facility Security and Production Timeline
Schlett emphasized the security of their facility, stating, “This is not a public space; it’s highly secured with cameras and armed guards.” While the state is not yet ready for product sales, Schlett indicated they are currently in the “fertigation” process, ensuring plant growth as the facility is developed. He projected that dispensaries would soon be established across Mississippi, allowing Big River to supply products to patients in need.
Dispensary Landscape in Vicksburg
Currently, no dispensaries in Mississippi are operational due to the lack of product certification. However, Schlett described the future dispensary model as similar to visiting a CVS, but with enhanced security features. Vicksburg has five dispensaries registered with the Mississippi Department of Revenue, including Leafmed 2 LLC, Mississippi Provisions LLC, The Green Standard LLC, Green Wellness, and Big River’s own dispensary arm.
Schlett dispelled common misconceptions about dispensaries, clarifying, “There won’t be a cloud of smoke or a chaotic environment. Typically, only two to three patients will be inside the dispensary at one time, while others wait in designated areas.” He added that purchasing will be discreet, with products packaged non-descriptively and customers politely directed out after their transactions.
Economic Impact and Regulatory Environment
Beyond providing medical cannabis, the dispensaries and Big River’s facility are set to boost the local economy. Opening a dispensary in Mississippi requires an initial investment of approximately $65,000, which includes a first-year license fee and a non-refundable application fee. Subsequent license renewals cost an additional $25,000 annually. The state imposes a 12% tax on medical marijuana sales, with 7% contributing to state sales tax and 5% as an excise tax. Local municipalities will receive 18.5% from the state sales tax.
Despite some skepticism regarding the viability of multiple dispensaries in Vicksburg, Schlett is confident in the market’s potential. “These dispensaries won’t just cater to Vicksburg residents; they’ll serve individuals from nearby areas as well,” he explained. “Patients will be able to obtain cards from the state, expanding access to those from neighboring states too.”
