Our Budtenders!

 
 

At Gorge Greenery, our team lives and breathes Hood River cannabis culture. Whether you searched “dispensary near me” or you’re a local regular, meet the people who’ll help you find the perfect flower, edible, or accessory

Kirsten Budtender, Gorge Greenery (Hood River Dispensary)

1. What’s your favorite cannabis product or category, and why?

My favorite cannabis product will always be a classic pre-rolled joint. At Gorge Greenery in Hood River, we now carry convenient multi-pack pre-rolls with a variety of strains, so I can choose the perfect joint depending on the time of day and the experience I’m looking for. I’m also a huge fan of transdermal cannabis patches. Every medicine cabinet should have one—these organic cannabis-infused patches are incredible for relieving back pain, pulled muscles, or everyday soreness.

2. What cannabis strain do you recommend for first-time customers?

For beginners, I recommend the Huckleberry Web 2:1 strain from Deep Creek Gardens. It’s a unique Oregon strain with around 6% THC and 12% CBD, making it approachable without overwhelming new consumers. Deep Creek Gardens is known for producing organic cannabis in soil, with careful cultivation practices that deliver clean, smooth flower. For anyone new to cannabis in Hood River, this strain is a perfect starting point.

3. What’s your go-to recommendation for locals vs. tourists?

For our Hood River locals, I always recommend coming in on Locals Wednesday, where residents of the Columbia River Gorge enjoy 25% off all products. It’s our way of taking care of our community and making sure locals have access to the best organic cannabis at the best prices.

For tourists visiting Hood River, I suggest trying a cannabis beverage. They’re refreshing on a hot day, easy to reseal, and come in a variety of THC levels from 10mg to 100mg. They’re discreet and perfect for unwinding after outdoor activities like kitesurfing, wing foiling, or hiking along the Columbia River Gorge.

4. What’s one cannabis tip or myth you’d like to clear up?

One common cannabis myth is that all cannabis is organic—this simply isn’t true. Some growers use synthetic nutrients, pesticides, or fungicides to maximize yield. At Gorge Greenery in Hood River, we only carry organically grown cannabis that is cultivated in soil, hand-trimmed, properly cured, and free of bottled chemicals. Always ask your budtender how your cannabis was grown—it makes a difference in both flavor and experience.

5. What do you enjoy most about working at Gorge Greenery?

I love the variety of people we get to meet every day at Gorge Greenery—from 21-year-old first-time cannabis customers to seasoned community members in their 90s. It’s rewarding to help people find products that bring them relief, whether they’re managing chronic pain, recovering from cancer treatments, or simply looking to enjoy Oregon’s cannabis culture responsibly. Our team truly believes in our motto: “Have fun, it’s cannabis!”

6. What do you like to do in the Columbia River Gorge when you are not at Gorge Greenery?

Living in Hood River, Oregon is incredible because the Columbia River Gorge offers endless outdoor adventure. When I’m not at the dispensary, I’m usually gardening and growing my own cannabis, kitesurfing, biking, or paddle boarding. The Gorge is the perfect place for anyone who loves hiking, rafting, kayaking, windsurfing, wine tasting, or simply soaking in the amazing views right outside our door.

Jake — Budtender, Gorge Greenery (Hood River Dispensary)

Favorite cannabis product or category
I’m a flower-first person. I love seeing the craft and care that goes into soil-grown cannabis—how it looks, smells, and cures tells you a lot about the grower. I also think about environmental impact, so knowing the farm and growing process really matters to me.

Best strain style for first-time customers
For new consumers, I suggest an easygoing hybrid at ≤20% THC or a balanced 1:1 THC:CBD cultivar (e.g., ACDC). It delivers a smoother, friendlier experience with less chance of overwhelm.

Recommendations for locals vs. tourists in Hood River

  • Locals: We’re an active community—kite, bike, hike—so I often recommend topicals for recovery (sore shoulders, knees, and backs).

  • Visitors: Try something you don’t see at home—maybe a new edible brand or a pre-roll variety pack to sample Hood River cannabis across a few strains.

Tip or myth to clear up
Edibles: start low and go slow. You can always take more—you can’t take less. Also, the idea that “all weed is the same” is a myth. Farming practices, inputs, genetics, and curing change everything. Ask us about how your flower was grown.

Favorite part of working at Gorge Greenery
The people. Our crew feels like family, and it’s a joy helping customers discover what works for them.

When I’m not at the shop
You’ll find me kiteboarding, gardening, and hanging with family and dogs. Hood River is a mecca for action sports—there’s always wind, trails, or a scenic hike to catch.

Zachary — Budtender, Gorge Greenery (Hood River Dispensary)

Favorite cannabis product or category
I love fruit chew edibles—consistent, tasty, and easy to dose for new or experienced customers.

Best strain for first-time customers
Blue Dream is a classic, approachable pick for beginners—balanced effects and familiar flavor.

Recommendations for tourists
Pre-roll packs are clutch for convenience and variety while you explore the Gorge—simple, portable, and no grinder needed.

Cannabis tip
Time your edibles and give them time to work before taking more. Patience leads to a better experience.

Favorite part of working at Gorge Greenery
The team—I’m grateful to be part of a warm, knowledgeable crew that cares about every customer.

Need guidance from a real human? Stop by Gorge Greenery, 13 Oak St—your friendly Hood River dispensary.