Nicholas Browne, Director of Cannabis for Island Enterprises- Interview Series

Few blossoming sectors showcase Indigenous innovation quite like the cannabis industry, where Native leaders have not only carved out a space for themselves but are transforming entire operations. From regenerative, organic farming practices that yield exceptional harvests to grand consumption lounges in states where non-tribal lounges remain years away, Native-owned cannabis brands continue to thrive and set benchmarks in a rapidly changing market.

A prime example of this economic and industrial potential is the Squaxin Island Tribe and their expansive operations through Island Enterprises. To explore their unique contributions to the market, mycannabis.com spoke with Nicholas Browne, Director of Cannabis for Island Enterprises.

How did your experience with cannabis cultivation begin? What experiences with cannabis and its potential benefits did you have before you started growing?

My experience with cannabis cultivation actually started back in high school. Nothing too serious—it was just a couple of friends and me experimenting by popping a few seeds in the back of a closet and, of course, getting into trouble with our parents.

When I came out to Washington to attend The Evergreen State College, I met classmates who shared the same interest, and we started growing together. As Washington’s medical cannabis market developed, I became more involved professionally. Then, when recreational cannabis became legal, I applied for a producer license as soon as applications opened.

I was fortunate to receive the seventh cannabis producer license issued in Washington State and the state’s first outdoor cultivation license. At that time, Colorado didn’t permit outdoor recreational cultivation, so High Water Farms in Shelton became the first licensed outdoor recreational cannabis farm in the United States.

As far as cannabis itself, like many people, I was introduced to it as a teenager through friends. We were mountain bikers, snowboarders, skateboarders, and skiers, so spending time outdoors and the natural, reflective side of cannabis appealed to us.

It wasn’t until the medical cannabis movement began that all of us started to truly understand its therapeutic potential. At this point I have had so many interactions with my immediate family, close friends and retail customers whose lives have been positively impacted by cannabis. I don’t want to go too far into friends and family medical details but I have people in my life that are here today because of cannabis.

Those personal experiences completely changed my perspective. For me, cannabis evolved from something recreational into something I genuinely believe can be a powerful medicine when used appropriately.

What were the Squaxin Island Tribe’s views on cannabis before Island Enterprises entered the cannabis industry?

Before Island Enterprises entered the cannabis industry, cannabis was simply illegal on the reservation. Like many tribal communities, there were understandable concerns about addiction and substance abuse. Introducing cannabis onto tribal land wasn’t viewed lightly.

The Tribe wanted to ensure that if it entered the cannabis industry, it would do so responsibly—with safe, tested products, strong regulations, purchasing limits, and a commitment to public health.

Just as importantly, the Tribe recognized that cannabis revenue could be reinvested into the community by supporting behavioral health, addiction treatment, environmental stewardship, and other tribal priorities. It wasn’t simply about creating a business—it was about creating economic opportunity while strengthening the community.

How did the Squaxin Island Tribe’s history with the land and agriculture give the Tribe an advantage?

The Tribe’s connection to the land has been a tremendous advantage. For generations, Squaxin people have relied on fisheries, shellfish cultivation, native plants, and environmental stewardship.

That philosophy carries directly into Native Sun Grown. We cultivate outdoors using organic practices, locally sourced inputs whenever possible, and no synthetic herbicides, fungicides, or pesticides. Sustainability isn’t just a marketing strategy—it’s part of the Tribe’s values.

When Washington’s recreational market began, consumers mostly focused on THC. Today they’re asking where cannabis was grown, how it was cultivated, and what went into producing it. It’s rewarding to see the market beginning to recognize the value of clean, sustainable cultivation.

Why is your local climate ideal for outdoor cannabis cultivation? What challenges do you face?

Western Washington is one of the best-kept secrets in outdoor cannabis cultivation. Summer weather typically averages around 75 degrees with moderate humidity and a light breeze—conditions many indoor cultivators try to recreate.

Our biggest challenge is fall weather. Increased rain, humidity, and cooler temperatures can create mold pressure, so selecting genetics that perform well in our climate is critical. Success comes from understanding your environment and choosing cultivars that thrive in it.

What are your regular duties as Director of Cannabis?

My primary responsibility is to keep Island Enterprises’ cannabis businesses moving forward.

No two days are alike. I may be working on farm expansion, supporting our retail teams, meeting with tribal leadership and attorneys on regulatory issues, or discussing policy with the Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board.

A major part of my role is identifying opportunities where the Tribe can lead the industry. Whether that’s more sustainable packaging, new retail experiences like deli-style cannabis, or responsible consumption events, we’re always looking for ways to normalize cannabis while maintaining safety and quality.

What are the main regulatory differences between tribal and non-tribal cannabis businesses?

The biggest difference is sovereignty. Cannabis businesses on the Squaxin Island Reservation are regulated by the Tribe through a compact agreement with Washington State.

That provides flexibility on the retail side and allows us to explore new ideas and customer experiences while ensuring revenue stays within the community to support tribal priorities.

On the cultivation side, however, we operate under the same testing, labeling, and production standards as every other licensed producer once our products enter Washington’s regulated market.

Why is it an honor to work for the first recreational cannabis store on tribal land?

It’s an honor because I’m working for a community rather than private investors. The revenue generated by our businesses directly supports tribal programs, environmental stewardship, and future economic development.

I’m also proud that our dispensary, Elevation, continues to push the industry forward through responsible innovation, sustainability, and new retail concepts. If we can demonstrate ideas that benefit not only tribal businesses but the Washington cannabis industry as a whole, we’ve accomplished something meaningful.

What went into the acquisition of Harmony Farms, and why was it worthwhile?

The acquisition involved months of due diligence, financial analysis, inventory reviews, equipment evaluations, and operational planning.

It made strategic sense because it strengthens our vertically integrated business. We already know how our cannabis is grown, and by expanding our processing capabilities, we can ensure the same level of quality carries through to extracts, edibles, beverages, and other products.

Harmony Farms also brought an experienced team, proven processes, and specialized equipment. Rather than building everything from scratch, we partnered with a company that already excelled in those areas, allowing us to accelerate our growth.

What are some notable future plans, and how will federal reform affect tribal cannabis?

We’re entering an exciting period of growth. We’re building a new purpose-built production facility on the reservation, expanding into indoor cultivation, launching deli-style cannabis retail, growing cannabis tourism, and developing new product partnerships.

Rescheduling alone likely won’t significantly change tribal operations. The biggest opportunities will come with full federal descheduling, which could eventually allow tribes to integrate cannabis into hospitality and tourism experiences alongside other tribal enterprises.

Federal reform will also expand research opportunities, helping the entire industry better understand cannabis through legitimate scientific study.

Thank you for joining us, Nicholas! For more information on Island Enterprises/Elevation, please visit its website.