Marijuana store opens near Cathlamet

The Freedom Market, a recreational and medicinal marijuana dispensary, opened its doors in Cathlamet on October 1. The shop already has locations in Longview, Kelso, and Ilwaco, and owners jumped at the opportunity when a license in Wahkiakum County became available.

"We were interested in expanding close to home, but far enough away that there was still a demand for it," Manager Rachel Bratton said.

According to Bratton, Freedom Market carries a lot of local product including marijuana grown in Kelso, Longview, Woodland, and Ridgefield. Some is grown as close as Mill Creek.

"We just put an order in with Natural Paths, a grower in Wahkiakum, because we've had a lot of requests for their product out here," Bratton said. "It's neat to have people come in and want something we don't necessarily know about or have, and then be able to get it."

Bratton, who also opened up the Longview store, currently has about eight employees while they get a feel for the location. Eventually they may hire more.

"We're slowly building up and trying to figure out what is going to be popular here," she said. "Chronic pain seems to be the reason a lot of people are coming in here."

It's not the only reason. A few customers came in looking for recreational marijuana while the reporter was there, and one customer purchased some edibles to help her sleep.

"It's not falling asleep that seems to be the problem," Bratton explained. "It's staying asleep all night. She knew exactly what she wanted."

Bratton was knowledgeable about the items in the store and discussed some of the uses for the tinctures, oils, and more, before moving on to the recreational items.

Freedom Market is located at 327 W. SR 4 in Cathlamet. Cash only. There is an ATM in the shop. You must be 21 to purchase their products. They are open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.

"I think we're only closed for Christmas," Bratton laughed.