Michigan’s Industrial Hemp plan has been approved by the federal government. Michigan’s plan aligns with the requirements of the 2018 Farm Bill and the USDA’s interim final rule.
The Industrial Hemp Ag Pilot Program started last year and carried into this year’s growing season, involving 631 growers and 517 processors. The trial year helped shape the regulatory framework needed to diversify the operations. Hemp is used to make paper, textiles, biodegradable plastics, construction materials, health food, and fuel.
State Senator Dan Lauwers of St. Clair County’s Brockway Township said, “Michigan’s pilot program for industrial hemp has been a great success. There is increasing interest in this crop in a wide variety of sectors. Michigan farmers will benefit greatly from being able to grow hemp, under the 2018 Farm Bill and Michigan’s USDA approved Hemp Growers Program.”
The THC level of the plants is monitored, and there are other requirements that distinguish industrial hemp from marijuana. Interested growers can go to Michigan.gov/IndustrialHemp for details.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
