The "largest outdoor growing operation ever prosecuted in Hawai'i" was discovered at the foot of Mount Wai'ale'ale in the area referred to as the "Blue Hole," officials said.

Five people, including a convicted federal felon, have been arrested and charged with manufacturing with intent to distribute more than 1,000 marijuana plants as a part of "Operation Green Stream," officials said.

Arrested on Kauai Friday were Edward H. Holland, 55; Mark Steven Darling, 52; Robert Jason Bihm, 28; Melissa Ann Bihm, 27; and Ryan Edward Bihm, 23.

All but Holland face between 10 years and life in prison if convicted.

Holland was arrested and convicted in 1991 with possessing with intent to distribute 97 pounds of marijuana. He served four years in federal prison.

Because of his prior federal drug conviction, Holland faces between 20 years and life in prison.