Don't think the government can't do this and can't do that. In today's day and age they'll find any excuse to justify their actions.
Look at all the stupid anti-cannabis ads being run on TV, and I bet you most of the American public actually buys into that bs.
If you're a large grower and they find any hint of you trying to distribute the herb, don't think they wont bust your ass! I doubt they care much about small grows though.