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Hemp Production Gains Momentum, Advocates Push for Policy Reform

Hemp Production Gains Momentum, Advocates Push for Policy Reform


As the movement for hemp production gains momentum, advocates are urging state and federal lawmakers to revamp agricultural policies to facilitate the cultivation of this versatile crop. Hemp, once farmed by several U.S. presidents including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, holds great potential beyond its psychoactive cousin, with applications in rope, textiles, paper, and more.

Kelly Rippel, a prominent hemp advocate and co-founder of Kansans for Hemp, emphasizes the need for lower barriers to entry in Kansas, including reduced production license fees and crop testing costs. He also highlights the potential for hemp seed as animal food, particularly for companion animals like dogs. Rippel believes that incentivizing participation in hemp production would greatly benefit farmers and the overall industry.

The 2018 federal Farm Bill legalized hemp production and removed it from the list of Schedule I drugs. This paved the way for hemp cultivation as an agricultural commodity across the country. As the 2023 Farm Bill is being written, there is growing consideration for approving hemp seed as animal feed, making it a more common rotational crop. The economic benefits and community value of hemp are gaining recognition, fueling the push for reform.

Despite challenges faced during the recent legislative session in Kansas, including concerns over license fees and aligning with federal statutes, advocates maintain that fiber and grain varieties of hemp offer the most promising path to sustainable economic development. Research suggests that hemp can enhance future crop yields and naturally suppress weeds, making it an attractive option for farmers.

With the potential to drive economic growth and expand market opportunities, the call for reforming agricultural policies to support hemp production is growing stronger. As advocates and industry leaders work towards creating a more conducive environment, the revitalization of hemp cultivation holds promising prospects for both farmers and the overall agricultural landscape.

 

Photo Credit: gettyimages-jessicahyde

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