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• Marijuana USA

Mark Mallen was already a highly successful, ice-cream entrepreneur In Denver when he started making the product for the state's fast-growing medical marijuana market.

The legalization of  marijuana for medicinal use in 14 US states has stoked explosive growth the in manufacture, distribution and retail of hydroponics equipment for growing the plant.

The legalization of medical marijuana in several states has paved the way for a budding edible medical marijuana industry. Small businesses in states such as Colorado and California are making treats such as candy, cookies or soda.

Pill vs. cigarette. They both have pros and cons as consumer products. But if there is a battle to bring recreational cannabis to market, most believe tobacco companies would have the upper hand over drug companies.

If pot becomes legal, local, artisanal growers—perhaps along with farmers' collectives—are likely to dominate in the early stage, as big firms ramp up to enter the market years later. Think Starbuds vs. Maxwell House.

In an excerpt from a chapter in her forthcoming book, CNBC's Trish Regan visits the three-county area of Northern California known as the Emerald Triangle,  where more pot is grown than anywhere else in America.

Drug dealers these days are far from the stereotypes of blinged-out urban kids and long-haired dirtbags. Many are moms, teachers, construction workers,  and municipal employees, supplementing their regular income.