Hemp Nation Magazine - SPRING 2016 by Darlene Mea

COVER

What’s Inside

14 THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM

BY VIOLA BRUGNATELLI

20 SOW THE SEED BY LAUREN STANSBURY

FEATURE STORY

34 HEMP FOR SUSTAINABILITY BY DARLENE MEA

8 HEMP IS A SUPER FOOD BY CINDY SHEAFFER

52 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

OF HEMP BUILDING BY STEVE ALLIN IRELAND

IN EVERY ISSUE 5 EDITOR’S LETTER

INDUSTRIAL 42 The Launch of the Economic Boom

WELLNESS 8 Hemp is a Super food 14

LIFESTYLES 47 Grow Our Future 52 Environmental Impact of Hemp Building

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

ENVIRONMENT 20 Sow the Seed 26

Global Warming & Cannabis Hemp

ECONOMICS 30 What Hemp can do for Economics in America

VETERANS 56 Choices, the time is now STATE OF AFFAIRS 60 The U.S. is becoming Hemp Legal

H E M P N AT I O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M • A P R I L 2 0 1 6

Editor’s Letter

reetings, and a warm welcome to the game-changing world of Hemp! As the Editor of Hemp Nation Magazine (HNM) and one who has extreme passion for our human rights and the future of people and our country, I am honored to share with you the return of this life giving reality called Hemp. In this Spring issue in honor of Earth day, we bring you Hemp for Sustainability, including Climate Change.

Just to be very clear, Hemp is the multi-versatile plant with 25,000+ uses, that no one can get ‘high’ on. It’s pretty epic, and with HNM you’ll continue to know why! As important, we are living in very exciting times and you matter. By this I mean, some major changes are happening and your awareness to the facts are important to all. Kind of like the 100th Monkey effect, it’s a tipping point, and the more in the know, the better it is for all. You will be pleased to know many amazing leaders, movers & shakers are already in!! This magazine, with it’s accompanying website is dedicated to bringing you truth, knowledge and awareness of what is going on within this industry, so it’s good to check back often, become a subscriber, get the FREE EBook – HEMP The American Game Changer, and friend us on Facebook-https:// www.facebook.com/HEMP-Nation-Magazine-855717617835365/. We are grateful to all of our contributing associates and team. We are a collection of inspired and educated real, honest, down-to-earth folks who are dedicated to this industry and bringing Hemp back to full legalization; as it was for 12,000 years before it was banned and misrepresented by DARLENE MEA the non-sustainable industries and corporations. It’s important to have a national pool of people to gain insights from regarding the continuous progression of the emerging industry. Just as with a paper magazine, you may want to sit and read the whole thing at once, or come back to this issue several times to digest the articles more slowly. The nice thing is, it’s only a few clicks away on your computer – We’ve decided to stay virtual, because we are environmentally friendly. However, at least twice a year we will print ‘special issues’ on Hemp paper, these will be available to our supportive subscribers and at special Hemp Events. We appreciate your support and are so happy to have you as a reader and supporter of Hemp Nation Magazine and the Hemp World. One more thing, as the editor, I’d like to say, I support the entire cannabis plant, we have a biological system that has receptors for cannabinoids, what’s not to support here. Read on, amaze yourself and share! With warmest appreciation Darlene Mea Editor n’ Chief

Stay informed and intouch!

H E M P N AT I O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M • A P R I L 2 0 1 6

HEMP NATION MAGAZINE A QUARTERLY DIGITAL MAGAZINE, FOR THE HEMP JULY – SEPT 2016 • ISSUE 8 VOL 2 P U B L I S H E R / E D I TO R

DARLENE MEA D a r l e n e @HempNationM agazine.com

A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R

MARK E T I NG HEMP NATION MAGAZINE

DIANNE RUX

C R E AT I V E D E S I G N / L AYO U T DIANNE RUX Dz i n e r G ra p h i c s. co m

ADVERTISING & DESIGN

Adver tisng@HempNationM agazine.com

General Information, Questions, Comments, Suggestions, Editorial Related Inquires & Submissions info@hempnationmagazine.com

CO N T R I B U TO R S & W E B S I T E S V I O L A B R U G N AT E L L I N at u re G oingSmar t@gmail.com N atureG oingSmar t.com SERAFINA ELIA s e rafino.elia@yahooh.it w w w.hemprojec t.eu CO U R T N E Y N . M O R A N , L L . M . EAR TH Law, LLC Environmental Advocate Representing True Hemp Cannabis Counselor & Attorney at Law Admitted to Practice in Oregon, Wisconsin and Minnesota courtney.moran@ymail.com • 541-632-HEMP (4367) P.O. Box 28575 Portland, OR 97228

STEVE ALLIN IRELAND D i re c to r I nte r national Hemp Building Assoc. K e n m a re, Ker r y, V93 R6W3, I reland n e ws @ i nter nationalhempbuilding.org w w w. i nte r nationalhempbuilding.org DANNION BRINKLEY w w w. thet wilightbr igade.com L AU R E N S TA N S B U R Y Pu b l i c Af f a i r s a n d M edia R elations Hemp H istor y Week Vo te H e m p & Hemp I ndustr ies Association VOTEHEMP.com Z E V PA I S S , N H A E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R ze v @ n at ionalhempassociation.org N at i o n alHempAssociation.com

Hemp Nation Magazine (HNM) is supported in part by it's Advertisers & Hemp Inc., with special acknowledgment to Bruce Perlowin. Hemp Nation Magazine is published and distributed 4 time a year. All contents are for educational purposes; our editorial team vets all information and HNM is strong on being a trusted brand. We are not responsible for any actions taken by our readers, nor do we condone any illegal activity. Advertisers are responsible for their own ads and content. HNM vets all advertisers; even though we cannot have 100% accuracy, HNM only supports “trusted brand businesses, with product purity and integrity.” All submissions become our property and may be used for publication. HempNationMagazine.com is not responsible for the opinions and statements of Citizen Journalists whose articles appear on our site. If you would like to contact the author of any article on HempNationMagazine.com, simply look for the “Email this author” link just under the article title. At times we may use materials placed in the public domain. If you own it, let us know and we will acknowledge you. Reproduction of any content is encouraged if you get permission from our Publisher. All contents copyright ©2016

HEMPNATIONMAGAZINE.COM • SUMMER 2016

Cannabis Hemp can replace any of the products made from timber. No more forests would be needlessly wasted.

All the paper we make from trees could be made even better by using Cannabis Hemp. We can produce more paper per acre than trees. Each Cannabis plant grown saves 12 trees. Hemp uses about 1/7 the chemicals used in paper manufacturing. Right now we cut down about 500 million cubic meters of forest every year. Hemp can be used for concrete, particleboard, insulation, drywall, cabinets, and furniture. We could build a house from Hemp materials without excess pollution, and without cutting down a single tree. Logging our trees is not necessary. There is no need to waste our land when Hemp could easily replace our timber. This destruction reaches into the pockets of every taxpayer, and destroys our environment.

Now it is time to turn to the future.

HEMP IS OUR SOLUTION.

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Wellness

HEMP IS A SUPER FOOD By Cindy Sheaffer

If you’re into healthy eating at all, you may already be aware of Hemp super food products. You may also be noticing a greater variety of Hemp food at your health food stores and even in your supermarkets.

By Darlene Mea

ith demand there is supply. More and more folks are realizing the super healthy benefits of eating hemp. Why are so many people are now adding this new/old super food to their daily diet? A big reason, is our body actually loves it and it’s protein packed, and high in chlorophyll.

Hemp eatables from Hemp Seeds, to Hemp Burgers, Milk, Coffee, Cereals, Sweet Treats and even Hemp Wine. Who knew the Hemp plant could produce so many amazing super foods with superb benefits for our body.

If you’ve never tasted Hemp, you’re in for a treat. In case your wondering, Hemp is legal and avail- Hemp seed is unique in its culinary compatibility able at your favorite healthy markets�; Whole Foods, and flavor. It has a deliciously nutty and rich, yet Trader Joes and Sprouts all carry a wide variety of delicate nature. Unlike what most of us know as H E M P N AT I O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M • A P R I L 2 0 1 6

“seeds,” hemp is a tiny, cream-colored flat disk comparable to the size of a sesame seed. Its texture is soft and creamy, not hard and crunchy. In my opinion, the taste is akin to that of a peanut or sunflower seed, yet somewhat richer and more complex. I can taste the hint of chlorophyll that dots some of the seeds; it reminds me ever so slightly of the taste I perceive when chewing a mouthful of chlorella tablets. Hemp, however, melts in your mouth. This property lends itself extremely well to blending the seeds to create smooth and creamy sauces, shakes, and soups.

THINGS YOU’LL WANT TO KNOW

from the synergistic nutritional effect it has to offer, and to minimize nutritional losses and modifications caused by processing, this form is my favorite and comes most highly recommended.

HOW TO USE HEMP SEED

The best form currently available to us is the hemp seed nut, in its most whole state. Sprinkle them on your salads, eat a handful alone, or blend them into a creamy sauce, smoothie, or soup. Keep in mind that blending causes rapid nutrient destruction and oxidation, so you won’t get as much from them by blending them as you would eating them whole. You can also make your own hemp milk by blending the seeds with three times as much water as seeds and then straining it (optional). Most people prefer to slightly sweeten their hemp milk by adding a few drops of stevia or other good sweeteners. Without any sweetener, this milk makes a delicious base for a creamy dressing or soup.

Essential fatty acids are very susceptible to the effects of light, heat, and oxygen (as most plant foods are). This means that any hemp products (or any EFA rich food) should be stored in the refrigerator, in sealed, light-impermeable containers and not heated in any way. Some products recommend refrigeration only after opening. And that is most likely fine, however shelf life is generally increased when these products are kept cooler. EFAs and proteins change drastically when they are heated and can transform the fats and proteins from being extremely healthful to extremely harmful. Any temperature over the enzyme threshold temperature of 115F will initiate these harmful changes. Here is the lowdown on the most popular forms of hemp avail- One more bonus of consuming hemp seeds is that able and how to use them: they are relatively economical, costing roughly the same price per pound as other popular organic Popular high-quality brands include: Manitoba seeds. But also keep in mind that they pack more Harvest, Living Harvest, Nutiva, Hemp-Seed, bang for the buck and in smaller quantities. Adding and Ruth’s. Because I’m a big believer in consum- hemp to your diet is an investment in our health ing the most whole form of a food in order to benefit that is well worth making. 10

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Wellness

HEMP SEEDS CONTAIN COMPLETE PROTEIN

They are a highly digestible balance of all 20 known amino acids (both essential and non-essential) and in higher quantities than most other plant sources of protein. Hemp seeds are 33-35% protein. A mere 2 tablespoons of hemp seeds contain approximately 11g of protein!

better. Chlorophyll’s presence in the hemp nut is another testament to its amazingly balanced nature. If you haven’t tried Hemp Products, it may be time to taste. Making healthy eating choices is always better for our overall lifestyle and now we have hemp super foods that will get us high on health. •

Hemp seeds have a near perfect ratio of omega-3 (alpha- linolenic) to omega-6 (linoleic) essential fatty acids (EFAs). The ideal ratio is considered to be 4:1 (omega-6: o m e g a — 3); hemp seeds have a ratio of 3.38:1. These fatty acids are required by our body via our food; we cannot synthesize them ourselves, thus the term, “essential.” Most Americans consume far more omega-6 and not nearly enough omega-3; this imbalanced ratio seems to go hand in hand with the common degenerative diseases of today. EFAs have a critical role in growth and development, inflammation response, mood regulation, immune strength, cardiovascular and neurological health, cellular respiration and more. Hemp also contains the fatty acids gamma-linolenic acid (omega-9), stearidonic acid, and oleic acid. Hemp seeds and oil contain chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is nearly identical in molecular structure to our blood and is thus extremely beneficial to building the blood, nourishing, and detoxifying the body. While the quantity is not nearly as high as the chlorophyll content of other blatantly green foods, like wheatgrass or leafy greens, the more we can increase our intake of chlorophyll the H E M P N AT I O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M • A P R I L 2 0 1 6

•

GET INF O

• GE T

T GE

INSPIRE

HNm VE D • VOL

Wellness

What is the

ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM? THE ENDOGENOUS CANNABINOID SYSTEM, NAMED AFTER

... THE MOST IMPORTANT PHYSIOLOGIC SYSTEM INVOLVED IN ESTABLISHING & MAINTAINING HUMAN HEALTH. THE PLANT THAT LED TO ITS DISCOVERY, IS PERHAPS

By Viola Brugnatelli

ndocannabinoids and their receptors are found throughout the body: in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells.

In each tissue, the cannabinoid system performs different tasks, but the goal is always the same: homeostasis, the maintenance of a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment. Cannabinoids promote homeostasis at every level of biological life, from the sub-cellular, to the organism, and perhaps to the community and beyond.

Here’s one example: autophagy, a process in which a cell sequesters part of its contents to be self-digested and recycled, is mediated by the cannabinoid system. While this process keeps normal cells alive, allowing them to maintain a balance between the synthesis, degradation, and subsequent recycling of cellular products, it has a deadly effect on malignant tumor cells, causing them to consume themselves in a programmed cellular suicide.

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Wellness The death of cancer cells, of course, pro- While it may seem we know a lot about cannabimotes homeostasis and survival at the level noids, the estimated twenty thousand scientific articles have just begun to shed light on the subject. of the entire organism Find out better how cannabinoids are effective Large gaps likely exist in our current understanding, anti-tumoral agents and what therapy could and the complexity of interactions between various assist you to fight cancer. Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids, cell types, systems and individual

also neuromodulators, allowing communication and organisms can still offer novel ways to look at physiology and health. coordination between different cell types.

At the site of an injury, for example, cannabinoids can be found • Decreasing the release of activators and sensitizers from the injured tissue. • Stabilizing the nerve cell to prevent excessive firing. • Calming nearby immune cells to prevent release of pro-inflammatory substances.

THE FOLLOWING BRIEF OVERVIEW SUMMARIZES WHAT WE DO KNOW,

(without getting over specific with terminology and mechanisms otherwise pedantic for general public)

Cannabinoid receptors are present throughout the body, embedded in cell membranes, and are believed Three different mechanisms of action on three differto be more numerous than any other receptor system. ent cell types for a single purpose: minimize the pain When cannabinoid receptors are stimulated, a variety of and damage caused by the injury. physiologic processes ensue.

Check out why cannabinoids are the best option for chronic pain, neuropathic pain or inflammatory pain.

WHAT ARE CANNABINOID RECEPTORS? Sea squirts, tiny nematodes, and all vertebrate species share the endocannabinoid system as an essential part of life and adaptation to environmental changes. By comparing the genetics of cannabinoid receptors in different species, scientists estimate that the endocannabinoid system evolved in primitive animals over 600 million years ago.

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Wellness

CURRENTLY, THERE Life is not possible in ARE 2 RECOGNIZED those of us who do CANNABINOID RECEPTORS: not have cannabinoid

receptors:

CB1, predominantly present in the nervous system, (is the most abundant G-protein coupled receptor of the CNS) connective tissues, gonads, In fact, depleting the gene encoding receptor sequence glands, and organs; (in order to obtain a cannabinoid knockout KO -/-), prevents embryo development and survival to birth. CB2, predominantly found in the immune system and its associated structures. Many tissues contain both CB1 and CB2 receptors, each linked to a different action.

WHAT’S AN ENDOCANNABINOID?

The two most well understood endocannabinoid molecules are called Anandamide (from Sanskrit, bliss) and 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2/

AG).

They are synthesized on demand from cell membrane arachidonic acid derivatives, have a local effect and short half-life before being degraded by the enzymes fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). Chemically, endocannabinoids are eicosanoids (oxidised fatty acids) and for this reason during the

International Cannabinoid Research Society symposium of 2014, it has been proposed to

change the nomenclature of “endocannabinoids” to “eicosanoids” in order to prevent stigma for therapies that target the cannabinoid system, but clearly There are many researchers (like myself and many lack of the cannabis component. (this has never others investigating novel receptors), speculating on taken place yet) a larger number of cannabinoid receptors, such as GPR55, that are also sensitive to lipid cannabinoids.

Phytocannabinoids are plant substances that stimulate cannabinoid receptors.

What is important to understand for the purpose of this article, is that endocannabinoids are the Most phytocannabinoids have been isolated substances our bodies naturally make to stimulate from Cannabis sativa, but other medical herbs, such these receptors, and that these are fundamental as Echinacea purpura, have been found to contain for life. non-psychoactive cannabinoids as well.

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Wellness Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the most psychoactive and certainly the most famous of these substances, but other cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN) and cannabinoid acids, are gaining the interest of researchers due to a variety of healing properties (that are further discussed here). INTERESTINGLY, THE CANNABIS PLANT ALSO USES CANNABINOIDS TO PROMOTE ITS OWN HEALTH AND PREVENT DISEASE.

(However, we recommend you to check certification of providers (as we outlined in this article: “The importance of Cannabinoid Analysis”, and if you are unsure get in touch with our team for consulting) If you are interested to know which Countries approve medical use of these synthetic cannabinoids, and what phathologies have been authorized prescription, I suggest you to check here. In order to understand whether whole plant or single compound may be better for you, please read here.

Cannabinoids have antioxidant properties that protect This introduction to the Endocannabinoid System the leaves and flowering structures from ultraviolet has been written thanks to the brilliant yearly review radiation ‐ cannabinoids neutralize the harmful free of recent scientific literature of “Emerging clinical radicals generated by UV rays, protecting the cells.

applications of cannabis and cannabinoids” by Paul Armentino, Deputy Diector of NORML (Check and In humans, free radicals cause aging, cancer, and support their work if you read from the States!), impaired healing, which can lead to a variety of they have a gift for concise and educational sumpathologies, from neuro-degenerative to immune mary and I felt it was the best approach (compared disorders. to the peer-reviewed publication model I often adopt), in order to introduce the basics of the EC. Antioxidants found in plants have long been promoted as natural supplements to prevent free All the information is indeed coming from an radical harm. (Here you will find many antioxidantextensive work of review on the15,899 articles on rich recipes to include in your diet) PubMed related to cannabinoids NORML does yearly, as well as a very interesting speech by Dr William Courtney during the ICRS annual symposium (check out his and his wife’s pioneering work with edible raw cannabis here) and my own underCannabinoids have also been synthesised, and standing from previous years of studies and work on whilst some remain mainly in the research domain the topic. (Usually those with long codes-like letters and numbers), several synthetic analogs of THC or You can follow my ongoing project for CrowdTHC+CBD combination are both prescribed for Funded Clinical Trial (www.therawstudy.eu) oral or sublingual intake. (We have a guide on RAW CANNABIS AND OTHER COMPLEMENTARY AND these kind of products)

SYNTHETIC CANNABINOIDS

CBD or Raw CBD (+CBDa) are available in many Countries as food supplements due lack of restrictive prescriptions on non-psychoactive compound.

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE IN RELAPSING-REMITTING MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS. A PILOT, RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, CROSSOVER TRIAL. •

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Environment

Sow The SEED

By Lauren Stansbury

Sixth Annual Hemp History Week Campaign is Biggest Yet

ach year, Hemp History Week grows and educates more Americans about the economic, environmental and health benefits of industrial hemp. The hundreds of hemp crops planted in 2015 demonstrate how much progress has been made since the campaign’s inaugural week, six years ago. But farmers are still prohibited from commercially growing this versatile and sustainable crop,” said Eric Steenstra, Executive Director of Hemp Industries Association. “Organizers are already looking forward to next year’s campaign, and we hope to finally achieve the grassroots and Congressional support needed to legalize industrial hemp farming throughout all 50 states.”

Spring Hemp Plantings, Hemp Home Building Courses & Over 1,500 Events Across the Country Build Momentum to Lift the Ban on Industrial Hemp Farming 20

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Environment

WASHINGTON, DC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; June 1-7, 2015 marked the biggest and most expansive Hemp History Week campaign to date, with over 1,500 events that took place nationwide. Spring hemp plantings, hemp building workshops, fashion shows, documentary film screenings, menu offerings at restaurants and cafes, retail promotions, and educational outreach brought public awareness to the movement to lift the prohibition on industrial hemp farming in the U.S. Encouraged by federal support in Congress, with the Industrial Hemp Farming Act re-introduced

in both the House and Senate in the first quarter of 2015, the campaignâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme Sow the Seed highlighted spring plantings in states that have passed legislation legalizing industrial hemppilot programs, and encouraged consumers to participate in our call for support among legislators to support industrial hemp farming and the growth of the hemp industry nationwide. Organizers have announced plans for the seventh annual campaign to take place June 6-12, 2015. More details about the 2016 campaign can be found at: www.HempHistoryWeek.com.

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Environment

SPRING HEMP PLANTINGS

HIA and Vote Hemp partnered with University of Kentucky’s College of Agriculture, to coordinate a press conference and tour of the university’s industrial hemp research program, which occurred on June 2, 2015, on the site of the university’s hemp pilot program fields. Throughout the country, farmers in states that have legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp began to plant hemp this spring and Hemp History Week coordinated events to celebrate the return of hemp to the American agrarian landscape. An environmentally sustainable crop, industrial hemp does not require chemical inputs of pesticides and herbicides to flourish. As farmers opened their hemp fields to the public, grassroots activists offered educational events about industrial hemp— it s his to r y, agronomy, health and ecological benefits—as we joined together to sow the seed.

FARMER SPOTLIGHT

Hemp History Week launched a new aspect of the campaign in its sixth year: Farmer Spotlight Interviews. Farmer Spotlights document hemp history in-themaking, focusing on a prominent hemp farmer each month and interviewing the farmer regarding such topics as hemp agriculture practices, benefits of hemp farming, successes and challenges to pioneering this crop, how they became interested to grow hemp, and other issues pertinent to hemp farming and hemp industry. To view our Farmer Spotlight series, visit the Hemp History section of the website: http://hemphistoryweek.com/hemp-history/u-s-hemp-farmers/.

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF HEMP

Among the fastest-growing categories in the natural foods industry, hemp seed is a rich source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs), providing both SDA and GLA, highly-digestible protein, and naturally-occurring vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and iron. An excellent source of dietary fiber, hemp seed is also a complete protein making it more digestible by the human body.

HEMP BUILDING COURSES

Hemp construction was showcased in celebration of Hemp History Week at the Hawaii Ohana Open House (Sugar Beach, HI) and the Highland Hemp House hemp building workshop (Bellingham, WA) in which members of the public were invited to participate. Hemp structures were built with hempcrete— a natural material that is energyefficient, non-toxic and resistant to mold, insects and fire, and which is more quickly renewable and sustainable than lumber. These programs cover contemporary construction methods and hands-on practical applications of working with hempcrete, including forming or shuttering, mixing and casting the hempcrete within a framed structure, as well as finishing with plasters and coloring.

CELEBRITY ENDORSEMENTS

Hemp History Week is endorsed by celebrities and high-profile wellness experts, including Dr. Andrew Weil, Alicia Silverstone, Phil Lempert, Ashley Koff R.D., Brendan Brazier, Elizabeth Kucinich, Ziggy Marley, Alexandra Jamieson, Dar Williams, Michael Franti, John Salley, Kevin Danaher, John Trudell, and Grammy award-winning band Ozomatli. For the 2015

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Environment campaign, musician Jason Mraz, and author Doug Fine have signed on as endorsers of Hemp History Week.

GRASSROOTS ENGAGEMENT

Over 300 grassroots events occurred nationwide, including an educational tour of college campuses, a restaurant program, film screenings of the documentary “Bringing It Home,” hemp fashion shows, community outreach at farmers’ markets, state lobbying days, a letter writing campaign, spring plantings and other exciting engagement opportunities. Specific details for these Hemp History Week events are listed on the website: http://hemphistoryweek.com/events/.

UNITED IN THE EFFORT TO BRING BACK INDUSTRIAL HEMP FARMING

LEGISLATIVE PROGRESS AND CHALLENGES IN 2015

When the 2013 farm bill was signed into law in February of 2014, the hemp amendment to the farm bill,Sec. 7606 Legitimacy of Industrial Hemp Research, defined industrial hemp as distinct from marijuana. This was an historic moment in the long standing effort to legalize hemp as the act asserts that industrial hemp is not psychoactive, having less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol on a dry weight basis and therefore presenting no drug value. The bill further allows for states that have already legalized the crop to cultivate hemp within the parameters of state agriculture departments and research institutions. Read the full text of the Legitimacy of Industrial Hemp Research amendment on the Vote Hemp website: http://www. votehemp.com/PDF/Pages_from_farm0127.pdf.

In defiance of clear Congressional intent An incredibly versatile crop, hemp regarding the legitimacy of indusfiber, oil seed and flowers are trial hemp for agriculture and used for a myriad of products— industrial applications, the Drug including health foods, dietary Enforcement Administration supplements, cosmetics and has hindered attempts at body care products, building progress made by agriculture materials, automobile parts, departments in many states Currently, 23 states bio-composites, batteries, that have legalized industrial bio-fuel, textiles, paper and may grow hemp hemp farming, by refusing to other products. Now, in its 6th grant permission for state licensyear, Hemp History Week is an ing of potential hemp farmers and industry-wide effort made possible by by not granting import permits in a the support of the leading natural prodtimely manner for certified hemp seed. uct brands known for manufacturing the highest In 2014, Congress passed an amendment to the quality hemp products. These HIA members and Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations bill platinum sponsor brands include Daily Greens, that directed DEA and the Dept. of Justice not to Dr. Bronner’s, Living Harvest, Manitoba Harvest, spend any funds in contravention of Sec. 7606. Nature’s Path Foods and Nutiva, silver sponsor Despite that amendment, states continued to face Himalania, and supporting sponsors The Wonder challenges importing legal hemp seed due to DEA Seed, Satori Movement, and Just Hemp Foods. delays and lack of cooperation. H E M P N AT I O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M • A P R I L 2 0 1 6

Environment In January of 2015, The Industrial Hemp Farming Act was introduced in both the House and Senate, H.R.525 and S. 134 respectively. If passed, the bill would remove all federal restrictions on the cultivation of industrial hemp, and remove its classification as a Schedule 1 controlled substance. Despite contradictory actions among federal authorities, the number of states that have prohemp legislation continues to increase. Currently, 23 states may grow hemp per Sec. 7606 of the Farm Bill, including California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia.

Hemp History Week is an industry-wide initiative of the Hemp Industries Association (HIA) and Vote Hemp. The HIA is a non-profit trade group representing hemp companies, researchers, farmers and supporters. Vote Hemp is a national, single-issue, non-profit advocacy group founded in 2000 by members of the hemp industry to remove barriers to industrial hemp farming in the U.S. through eductaction, legislation and advocacy. For further information please visit: www.TheHIA.org and wwwVoteHemp.com. â&#x20AC;˘

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Environment

GLOBAL WARMING CANNABIS HEMP

Global warming is not a myth.

any people see Global Warming as the most threatening force of destruction on our planet. Global Warming is linked to a number of other environmental problems affecting the earth. Millions of people would die as a result of global warming if no changes were made. Briefly summarized, global warming is the increasing buildup of Carbon Dioxide in our atmosphere. Carbon Dioxide is released when fossil fuels, such as coal or petroleum, are burned for energy. In the last 100 years alone we have increased our CO2 levels by 30%, with a noticeable effect on the environment. Our sea levels are rising, the global temperature is increasing, our glaciers are melting,

By Serafina Elia and scientists predict further and more massive levels of destruction in the coming years. The dependence on petroleum products and fossil fuels could potentially ruin the earth, making it possibly uninhabitable in the coming centuries.It is possible to produce all of our energy with Cannabis Hemp. The unique growing properties of the plant make it the ideal crop for our energy needs. One acre of Cannabis Hemp can produce 1000 gallons of methanol in a single growing season. Any CO2 released from burning Cannabis Hemp would be the same CO2 the plant had already taken from the environment, creating what is called a closed carbon cycle. A closed carbon cycle system of energy production would slow down the effects of global

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warming, and with well-implemented plant growth could possibly stop global warming entirely. No other plant on earth could meet the needs of global energy consumption, but Cannabis Hemp could. Our automobiles account for much of the CO2 released into the ecosystem. Already electric cars are available to the public to promote reduced gasoline consumption. But electric cars are inefficient, and the support structure for this type of automobile is not in place. In 1998 transportation fuels accounted for almost 500 million tons of CO2 emissions. Meanwhile, our gas prices are skyrocketing, taking money directly from our pockets.Cannabis Hemp can produce a clean-burning, energy efficient form of gasoline, with less cost to the consumer. Already, ethanol is added to gasoline to increase octane levels and efficiency. Henry Ford of Ford motors believed that eventually all cars would run entirely on ethanol. Cannabis Hemp can easily be fermented into alcohol in the form Our sea levels are of ethanol. Small ethanol production stills from corn and other rising, the global temperature is crops already exist in the United States. Making ethanol and increasing, gasoline from Cannabis Hemp would further reduce CO2 emisour glaciers sions and help regenerate our suffering planet. The National are melting Renewable Energy Lab in Colorado, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Department of Energy have all stated that to help the environment, we must produce bio diesel and bio ethanol. If ethanol production proves too daunting, and more immediate solutions are warranted, cannabis hemp can also be converted into fuel oils to produce gasoline directly. Cannabis gasoline would not contain other harmful emissions associated with automobiles (such as sulfur), but it would release carbon dioxide. Still, as mentioned earlier, this CO2 would be the same CO2 the cannabis plant had already absorbed, and so there would be no net increase. â&#x20AC;˘

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Beauty Products:

Hemp can be used in a variety of beauty products and cosmetics, such as shampoos, conditioners, massage oils, skin crĂ¨mes, salves, sunscreens, lip balms, soaps, lotions, and personal hygiene products. Not only is hemp less likely to cause an allergic reaction, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also been known to cure dermatitis and other serious skin conditions. Those who use hemp also have the certainty that they are utilizing a green product that is free of harsh chemicals and toxins that can harm the skin.

Laundry Detergent

Did you KNOW?

The oil found in industrial hemp is used in many products, such as laundry detergent. Hemp oil biodegrades naturally when entering our water systems. Many industries worldwide have incorporated hemp oil commercially due to its beneficial qualities. Germany now manufactures and sells a popular brand of laundry detergent that is primarily based on hemp oil to provide softer, stronger, and more effective clothing.

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Economics

What Hemp can do for Economics in America BY Courtney N. Moran, LL.M. EARTH Law, LLC

ndustrial hemp is an invaluable renewable resource that is gaining popularity in the U.S. marketplace. As U.S. states continue to re-legalize industrial hemp, more and more industrial hemp products are found on local store shelves. The U.S. is currently the largest importer of industrial hemp products in the world. To date, almost all industrial hemp products on U.S. shelves are imported into the U.S., as commercial cultivation of industrial hemp is still illegal under U.S. Federal law. Although market data is not readily available, the Congressional Research Service estimated that the U.S. imported $12,271,000 worth of industrial hemp products in 2011. In 2013, the U.S. imported approximately $36,866,000 of industrial hemp products. Now in 2016, it’s clear to see the 30

demand for industrial hemp products in the U.S. is increasing exponentially. Similarly, as U.S. imports of industrial hemp products increase, the U.S. market share for industrial hemp products is increasing exponentially. • In 2010, Vote Hemp estimated U.S. retail industrial hemp sales at $419 million. • In 2013, the Hemp Industries Association (HIA) estimated U.S. retail sales around $581 million. • In 2015, HIA estimated U.S. retails sales at more than $620 million. These products were all produced with imported industrial hemp. It’s time U.S. farmers share in that market.

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Economics At least 27 U.S. states have distinguished industrial hemp from marijuana, removing barriers to production. As more states re-legalize industrial hemp and begin production, we will start to see “Made in

the U.S.A.” industrial hemp products on store shelves.

economic opportunities. One of the focuses of the Oregon 2016 Legislative Session was implementation of industrial hemp legislation that provides for a sustainable industry, that will provide farmers with an alternative crop as well as put rural communities back to work. In Oregon this is especially important for those communities that have been negatively affected by the decline in the timber industry. Rural communities throughout the country are seeking new economic opportunities, which industrial hemp can provide.

Currently, any industrial hemp products made with U.S. grown industrial hemp are produced, manufactured, and sold under the auspices of market research, compliant with provisions in the Agricultural Act of 2014 (2014 Eventually, the Farm Bill). Pending A resurgence in industrial hemp U.S. will export, action on the federal production will create jobs in all sectors. rather than import, level, U.S. farm- For example positions will open up in: ers will soon engage industrial hemp in full commercial INDUSTRIAL • Academics products! cultivation. Agriculture OPENING• PG • Business administration Many U.S. states have enacted industrial hemp • Construction cultivation legislation specifically for the economic • Health care opportunities that industrial hemp provides. For • Law example, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell • Manufacturing and Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky base their • Marketing support for industrial hemp re-legalization, and in • Processing particular Kentucky’s industrial hemp re-legalization • Retail sales in 2013, on the economic benefits of industrial • And transportation sectors. hemp. Senate Majority Leader McConnell stated, Since industrial hemp can be produced into a “After long discussions with Senator Rand Paul and myriad of products, all sectors will be able to take Commissioner James Comer on the economic ben- advantage of industrial hemp’s benefits. efits of industrialized hemp, I am convinced that allowing its production will be a positive develop- Increasing industrial hemp acreage is paramount to ment for Kentucky’s farm families and economy… realizing industrial hemp’s economic benefits. As U.S. The utilization of hemp to produce everything from farmers increase production, U.S. manufacturers and clothing to paper is real and if there is a capacity retailers will use U.S. grown industrial hemp, and will to center a new domestic industry in Kentucky that no longer need to rely on imported hemp. Having will create jobs in these difficult economic times an increased, local supply of industrial hemp will enable U.S. manufacturers to engage in state of the that sounds like a good thing to me.” art processing techniques to produce products from Legislative Committees around the country that industrial hemp that are currently being produced are reviewing proposed industrial hemp bills are from non-renewable materials, for example, hemp echoing industrial hemp’s potential as a mech- plastics. Eventually, the U.S. will export, rather than anism to create jobs and provide abundant import, industrial hemp products. H E M P N AT I O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M • A P R I L 2 0 1 6

Economics Availability of U.S. grown hemp will reduce importation and transportation costs, which will lead to reduced wholesale and retail costs of industrial hemp products. As wholesale costs decrease, manufacturers not currently using hemp in their products will be able to affordably incorporate industrial hemp into those products. As retail prices decrease, more consumers will be able to afford industrial hemp products, and industrial hemp products will become common household items, in all households.

Industrial hemp is already starting to revitalize the U.S. economy.

Industrial hemp is already starting to revitalize the U.S. economy. Development of the U.S. industrial hemp industry is providing abundant economic opportunities around every corner. As U.S. farmers begin to increase their production, processors are modifying existing processing equipment as well as bringing new processing equipment to the U.S., manufacturers are developing new products, and retailers are bringing those products to market. Jobs are opening up in all sectors in states that are actively developing an industrial hemp industry. Increasing U.S. pro- Industrial hemp will provide for a strong, sustainable d u c t i o n w ill a l s o economy. â&#x20AC;˘

provide significant environmental benefits. Farmers that are

currently allowing their fields to go fallow, can use industrial hemp as a rotation crop. When used in rotation, industrial hemp can break disease cycles, replenish soil, and provide farmers with additional income. Industrial hemp can also remove toxins added to soil through conventional farming, assisting farmers converting to organic farming. Consumers are becoming conscious consumers, demanding sustainably produced and organically grown products. Industry representatives report that organic industrial hemp products retail for three times the value of conventional industrial hemp products. To guarantee the U.S. once again reaps the full potential industrial hemp has to offer, it is essential that laws enacted regulating industrial hemp provide for a sustainable, thriving industry. Arbitrary limitations today will have significant impacts on the development of the industry in years to come. Industrial hemp laws need to protect agricultural, manufacturing, and consumer interests, while ensuring standards are put in place that protect public health and safety.

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Cover Story

“Americans could be creating this multi-billion dollar Hemp Industry in our soils, and keep our profits in our home land.”

HEMP for Caprice Hemp Furniutre

Hemp Chairs & Furniture

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Hemp Crops for Fuel

Cover Story It seems as though all of our president-elects frequently speak of the need for more ‘green jobs and greater economics for our country’, yet still, not one is acknowledging the inherent environmental and economies advantages associated with the 12,000+ year old plant called hemp. What is up with that? Are they in the dark, or why are they not acknowledging the obvious? by Darlene Mea With excerpts from Nikolas Kozloff ‘Silver Bullet’

ver the past 18 months, since Obama signed the Farming Act to bring Cannabis back to the forefront, the industry has exploded! The continued progress within the various sectors of this multi-diverse hemp arena are on the verge of changing our reality, as most of us have not seen in our life time. From farming to economics, Made in America products, to super foods for life, CBD’s for our Cannabinoid system, Hemp-Crete for oxygen producing eco-buildings, low carbon footprints for our atmosphere, new fashion fabric’s for Hemp attire, bio-fuel, super-capacitors, car’s, planes, medicines, and this list could go on

for thousands of products… As we stay in our focused forward motion, hemp will soon be a part of our ‘blessed reality’. A silent hallelujah is in order while holding this direction of ‘Hemp the American Game Changer’ in place. Hemp needs to be completely legal for our framers to grow in all 50 states. And if testing is necessary for this carbon friendly plant, let’s grow and test at the same time – As some of us may realize, time is of essence here! There are still a few challenges to move through – which are the outmoded legalities, based on deceit to the American people – The lies, and the laws made-up around the lies,

SUSTAINABILITY Hemp Board - Building

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Hemp Homes Sustainability

Cover Story are bound to be doomed. Hemp is NOT a schedule 1 Drug, never was, never will be, yet still, Hemp is seemingly being held hostage by the Federal Government. Of course this feels like a time deterrent while ‘the Gov’ files their patents on natures gifts to all.

in every sector of business: textiles, bio-fuel, health care, and super foods for a greater sustaining lifestyles, plus, plus AND PLUS.

We’ve only just begun and Americans are excited and on it! Those who can see beyond the veil, “Hemp is NOT a which has been pulled tightly over our eyes, have this rate we will completely embraced this industry now and clearly schedule 1 Drug, At slowly eek into this see the BIG picture. Only one challenge, the corponever was, never multi-billion dollar, life rations that changed the laws to deny Americans of saving, climate chang- Cannabis in this country, are the same ones trying will be.” ing industry. While all to block and delay every move. However, Americans along, America is one of the very few countries in for a clean green future are on a roll like a locomothe world having this problem with the legalization tive on a mission, there’s no stopping us now. The of Hemp. China and Canada are two of our largest Industry does need aware, educated, innovators, hemp products and hemp seeds suppliers. In other movers and shakers to come on over, ‘check out words we can eat it, wear it, build with it, but not the BIG picture’ and jump on in. legal for farmers to have their own seeds or ‘out and out’ just plant and grow hemp. These farming laws are slowly making progress, state by state, but it is being far more drawn out than it should be. Apparently, it seems to be a better option, (for our decision makers) to give multi-millions to other countries, while Americans could be creating this If such claims regarding hemp’s transformative multi-billion dollar Hemp Industry in our soils, and properties were not enough, advocates also envikeep our profits in our home land of the supposin’ sion nothing less than the end of the petrochemical free! Industry as we know it.

FROM NEW VEHICLES TO MASONRY TO TEXTILES AND PETROCHEMICALS

What is epically important to remember and share with our sphere of influence (after we each do own research of course), Hemp is a mega answer to many crucial challenges in our country and on our planet – Hemp is environmentally sustainable, provides jobs for greater economics, it’s a new industry for products ‘Made in America’, economics increases

Hemp Clothing - by Sundial 36

From shoes to sofas to cars and even planes, many of the common materials that we use today are derived from petrochemicals. Hemp on the other hand is a versatile fiber and could be employed in everything from the construction of tractor hoods to shields to cabs.

Hemp H E M P Board N ATI O-NConstruciton MAGAZINE.COM

• APRIL 2016

Hemp for Fuel - Hemp Jet

Cover Story One time, none other than Henry Ford produced a car whose frame was partially made of hemp and whose engine could be powered with hemp fuel. Some manufacturers claim that vehicles made out of hemp much more durable and lighter, as a result they display greater fuel efficiency. In addition, agricultural fibers can be cheaper and stronger to produce than fiberglass. What is more, scientists are conducting research on how to derive biodegradable plastic products from hemp. Already, such research has borne fruit as auto companies introduce hemp into major manufacturing. Advocates also believe that hemp can help to bring about a revolution in the textile industry. In the not-too-distant future, “eco-textiles” could become a popular buzzword as hemp replaces environmentally wasteful cotton production.

“Entrepreneurs say that hemp necessitates far less water to grow than cotton.” Additionally, hemp rarely requires pesticides to grow and scientists are developing an innovative technique designed to turn tough hemp fiber into yarn. Early independent tests indicate that the process yields clothes, which are durable and comparable to cotton in both softness and brightness. Interestingly enough, by shifting to large-scale hemp production the U.S. might not only spur the growth of new industries but also help to clean up contaminated landfill.

Hemp Paper Products

Recently, the Colorado State legislature passed a bill to study hemp’s potential to bring about socalled “phyto-remediation,” a process by which plants actually filter and clean polluted soil. The state would follow in the steps of Ukraine, which planted industrial hemp near Chernobyl in the late 1990s in an effort to remove harmful contaminants from the ill-fated nuclear site.

BIO-FUELS AND CLIMATE CHANGE

As if all these potential benefits were not enough, advocates hope that hemp could also be used to create a new bio-fuel. To be sure, our planet needs to shift away from fossil fuels, which exacerbate climate change, though in practice some bio-fuels fail to measure up. As Nikolas argued in his last book, No Rain in the Amazon: How South America’s Climate Change Affects the Entire Planet, cornbased ethanol based in the American Midwest does not put much of a dent in our global warming problem. Though Brazil’s program of sugar cane ethanol is somewhat better than corn from an environmental standpoint, the crop still eats up land and leads to deforestation in sensitive bio-diverse areas. Moreover, sugar cane requires fertilizer and deprives poor peasant farmers of land which could otherwise be used to grow food.

H E M P N AT I OHemp N M A GMedicines AZINE.COM • APRIL 2016

Cover Story

In addition to bio-fuel, could hemp also lead to other benefits — like helping restore the earth’s climate equilibrium? The short answer seems to be, YES. As hemp grows, it “sequesters” or captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

A Silver Bullet? With so many benefits, hemp advocates believe that the plant may represent a silver bullet when it comes to solving the earth’s many environmental & economical challenges. Take for example widespread deforestation, which has exacerbated climate change. Though deforestation is linked to many diverse and complex causes, the timber industry has no doubt played a nefarious role. Hemp and marijuana boosters — which often overlap — claim that hemp might offer a way out of our deforestation dilemma. Hemp has a higher cellulose level than wood, advocates argue, and therefore the plant could be used for paper to avoid cutting down trees.

Hemp Medicine

Hemp Foods

Whatever the case, hemp’s overall environmental potential should not be underestimated. In an era of ever worsening global warming and job scarcity, this unlikely plant may represent an ecological and social boon to wider society. If our next President Elect and administration is serious about the next wave of green employment and climate change, it would do well to investigate hemp more seriously. To be sure, the humble crop still carries a social stigma, though such outmoded attitudes seem to be changing. Indeed, if recent political and cultural change associated with marijuana legalization is any indication, hemp production may be growing in America sooner rather than later. •

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Hemp Concrete

HempNationMagazine.com

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EDITORIAL

Choose Healthy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Choose Hemp! High On Health provides quality, natural hemp seed, hemp oil, and hemp products for those looking to improve their health and wellness. In addition to many other benefits, hemp provides protein, and balanced omega essential fatty acids. Truly nature's best superfood!

Choose Healthy for People, Pets, Our Planet & Life!

High on Health is celebrating hemp, for all of its resources.

“Using hemp is a way to use

carbon neutral, renewal materials instead of petroleum and is a huge step in helping to save the planet. In addition, it can lead to economic healing for our country”

The

LAUNCH of the ECONOMIC BOOM By Devi Barnard

How do you get the fiber from hemp plants?

decrease in the stalk, the bast fiber pulls away from the inner core so it can be processed further.

In the “olden days”, many men (and women to be politically correct today) were needed to process hemp into useful fiber products. Growing hemp crops was the easy part. It was the processing that was labor-intensive. Obtaining the valuable fibers from hemp was done through a vigorous decortication process that was very hard work. Even so, the benefits were well worth it.

After the retting process comes the decortication process. Before machines, men had the very tedious job to break, hack, and beat (or scutch) the tough stalks in order to release the cellulous core material from fiber. In the colonial days, when American farmers were required by England to grow hemp, this process was done by hand. Even though slaves were used to do this work in the 1700’s and 1800’s, the process still increased labor costs dramatically - mostly because of the shear number of people it took to process the vast hemp crops.

The first step in harvesting a hemp crop requires a special technique in itself. After being cut down, the hemp stalks must lie in the fields and rett (technical term for rotting). This is a necessary step that allows the outer fiber (bast) to release its grip around the cellulous core (hurd). When the moisture begins to

As in America, the harvesting and processing of hemp faced the same challenges in Europe. As they say, necessity is the mother of invention. So in 1861, a farmer, named Bernagozzi from Bologna, Italy, developed a machine called a “scavezzatrice” or decorticator. It was a somewhat automated machine

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Industrial One of the most talked about decorticators is the Schlichten model. George Schlichten spent 18 years and $400,000 on developing his decorticator, a machine that could strip the fiber from any plant and separate the pulp. His desire was to stop destroying forests for paper, which he believed to be a crime! Schlichten introduced his decorticator in 1917. It separated the long hemp fibers from the pulpy celluloid (hurds) center of the hemp stalks, dramatically reducing the exorbitant labor costs associated with cleaning and preparing hemp for further processing.

for processing hemp fiber, which was much quicker and required less manpower.

WHAT IS A DECORTICATOR?

Let’s break the word decorticator down to its origin. The Latin word ‘corticātus’ means covered with bark, or in the case of hemp, the bast fiber. The process of decorticating is stripping the bark (bast fibers) from the plant stalks, in preparation for further processing. The decortication machine automates the process of stripping the fiber from the core making it ready to be used in products such as: textiles, rope, animal bedding, oil absorbents and environmentally-friendly lost circulation material for oil and gas drilling industries.

Unfortunately the decorticators faded in the 1950’s because of corporate greed from the paper and cotton industries. William Randolph Hearst and DuPont along with others in the United States government who had influential power, such as Harry J. Anslinger, created propaganda to purposely label all cannabis and industrial hemp as a dangerous drug.

FIBER PROCESSING WITH MODERN DECORTICATORS Today, many products are made from hemp. But most of the products must be produced in other countries due to the laws in America. The legal landscape is rapidly changing in America as legislation continues to be passed to allow hemp crops to be grown once again.

Since the invention of the “scavezzatrice” (one of the first decorticators) in the 1890’s, hundreds of different types of decorticators were developed. By 1916 in the United States there were 5 different types of “machine brakes” that were used to break the hemp stalks down so the fiber could be processed. H E M P N AT I O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M • A P R I L 2 0 1 6

Industrial Modern technology has evolved and now sophisti- neutral, renewal materials instead of petroleum cated and completely automated decorticators for and is a huge step in helping to save the planet. processing fiber are used. In addition, it can lead to economic healing for our country, with the many products that can be made Temafa Machines is a family owned business in from hemp right here in America. Germany since 1949. They design custom-built machinery and equipment. In 1990 Temafa devel- Bruce Perlowin, CEO of Hemp, Inc. oped the Decortication Line for Bast Fibers. It is a (OTC PINK: HEMP), said: modular design that allows a flexible system con“Our Company has been working diligently to get cept, but overall the system is quite large. the decortication line and mill up running. Once it’s operational, our shareholders can expect to see Today there are only five Temafa decortication the fruits of our labor. Also, more states are supmachines in the world of this magnitude. There porting pro-hemp legislation, which means there are two in South Africa, two in France. Industrial will be endless opportunities across our nation.” • Hemp Manufacturing LLC (wholly owned subsidiary of Hemp Inc.) owns the only Temafa decortication line in the United States. With the Temafa decortication line, the company will be able to process raw hemp and kenaf from American farmers into valuable products from both the bast fiber and the core (hurd). Hemp, Inc. wants to empower farmers with additional revenues for a part of the plant they may have previously discarded or ground up for animal bedding. The company will process hemp and kenaf into raw fiber to sell to automotive and textile industries and use the core to make “loss circulation material” and absorbents for large oil and gas drilling companies. When the plant begins operations in 2016, the Temafa proocessing line will be able to process 40 million pounds of raw hemp per year. In addition, Hemp, Inc. is developing portable decorticators, which can be deployed near any hemp farm in North America. This enables the farmers to process hemp fiber on location, making it easier for them to gain additional revenues without having to ship the hemp stalks across state lines for processing.

HEMP INC

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Hemp, Inc. is passionate about eco-friendly and green solutions. Using hemp is a way to use carbon 44

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LEADING HEMP BRANDS UNITE TO SUPPORT GRASSROOTS EDUCATION CAMPAIGN

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Lifestyles

Advocates, Consumers, and Businesses Build Momentum for Hemp History Week: June 6-12, 2016

FUTURE GROW OUR

By Lauren Stansbury

WASHINGTON, DC – The Hemp Industries Association (HIA) and Vote Hemp have announced the dates for the 7th annual Hemp History Week, to be held June 6-12, 2016.

Over half of all U.S. states have lifted the ban on industrial hemp farming at the state level, however

To view the new video for the 7th Annual Campaign, visit: http://bit.ly/1NAxtZY.

federal law still prohibits commercial industrial hemp cultivation due to outdated and inaccurate drug policy. With momentum building across the country, and increasing consumer awareness about the health benefits, economic opportunities, technological innovation and sustainability advantages of industrial hemp— advocates and organizers are eager to see 2016 be the year industrial hemp farming expands across the American agriculture landscape once again.

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Lifestyles “Hemp is widely recognized as a nutritious superfood, yet leading brands in the natural products industry must import their hemp to meet the growing demands of the US market,” says Eric Steenstra, Executive Director of the Hemp Industries Association. “Hemp History Week educates consumers nationwide about the benefits of hemp products, and the campaign has grown tremendously in the last seven years, but our ultimate goal is to legalize hemp farming at the federal level, so hemp can be grown by farmers here in the U.S. We’re building a movement that’s good for farmers, businesses and consumers.”

GROW OUR FUTURE

The theme for the 2016 campaign focuses on the ability of hemp farming, raw materials, finished products, and innovative technologies to create a sustainable future in which every-day products are renewable and grown using regenerative agriculture. Hemp is a renewable resource that can help reduce market dependency on synthetics, lumber, cotton, and other non-sustainable industrial materials. It contributes to environmentally responsible food and fiber production, forest conservation, reduction in agricultural pesticide use, and soil remediation. Hemp sequesters carbon from the atmosphere thus mitigating the rise of CO2 levels responsible for climate change. Furthermore, pollinators thrive on the proliferous pollen created by hemp plants.

RETAIL PROMOTIONS

Promotions and in-store events will highlight the benefits of hemp in hundreds of natural product retail outlets across the county. Hemp product promotions will happen in more than 1,300 participating retailers including natural foods and specialty stores and most Whole Foods Market locations in the U.S.

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GRASSROOTS ENGAGEMENT Over 300 grassroots events will take place nationwide, including: • A restaurant program • Film screenings • Fashion shows • Community • Outreach at farmers’ markets • State lobbying days • A letter writing campaign • Spring plantings • Other exciting engagement opportunities. Specific details for these Hemp History Week events will be listed on the web site beginning in early April.

HEMP FOR OUR HEALTH

A renewable resource offering a long list of health and nutritional benefits, hemp is one of the fastestgrowing categories in the natural foods industry. Hemp seed is a rich source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs), providing both SDA and GLA, highly-digestible protein and naturally-occurring vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and iron, while being a good source of dietary fiber. It is a complete protein, containing all ten essential amino acids, with no enzyme inhibitors, making it more digestible by the human body. Hemp seed is gluten-free and has no known allergens.

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Lifestyles From hemp batteries to efficient hemp homes, industrial hemp is a crop that can Grow Our Future.

UNITED IN THE EFFORT TO LEGALIZE HEMP FARMING

Now in its seventh year, Hemp History Week is an industry-wide effort made possible by the support of the leading natural product brands known for manufacturing the highest quality hemp products. These HIA members and sponsor brands include Dr. Bronner’s, Living Harvest, Manitoba Harvest, Nature’s Path Foods, Nutiva, Pacific Foods and Himalania.

“The ban on hemp farming is yet another economically debilitating and nonsensical effect of prohibition,” said David Bronner, CEO of Dr. Bronner’s.

“We want to invest in our environment and farmers, and source the 20 tons of hemp oil we use annually for soap production from U.S. farms. Being part of Hemp History Week is one way we demonstrate our support for this issue, and in a wider sense, our commitment to sustainability and regenerative agriculture.”

“Industrial hemp is an exciting crop being reintroduced slowly into the U.S. after a tumultuous domestic history. Tempt is poised to be a national industrial pioneer and proud to be supporting this growing agricultural evolution,” said Donna Ratner, COO Tempt Hemp. “It’s amazing to think about the abundance of nutrition that comes from this tiny hemp seed, not to mention the potential viability of using hemp instead of destroying forests, its potential in supplementing petroleum use and employing hemp to fulfill our global hunger for plastics. I believe that hemp’s industrial opportunities are numerous

and hope to see the U.S. government realize a firm position and strategy on re-implementing hemp as a national, federally regulated commodity.” “We’re proud to be a long-time supporter of Hemp History Week and the movement to legalize Industrial Hemp in the U.S.,” explains Mike Fata, CEO & Co-Founder Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods. “Growing hemp in both Canada and the U.S. will advance our dream of making it easier than ever for people to enjoy hemp foods at every eating occasion.” Arran Stephens, CO-CEO and founder of Nature’s Path Foods, North America’s largest organic breakfast and snack-food company, says, “We include organic hemp seed in a growing number of our cereals, bars, oatmeals, and waffles to deliver delicious plant-based protein. Nature’s Path has proudly been an integral actor in the growth of the edible hemp industry since its beginning. This June, we look forward to celebrating America’s long history of hemp farming and educating the public on the benefits of embracing hemp — both in our farmlands and on our breakfast tables. Let us remember that the American constitution was written on hemp paper, and it was considered patriotic to grow hemp for its many beneficial industrial uses.” “Hemp was a major crop for American farmers 150 years ago,” said John Roulac, Founder and CEO of Nutiva. “Hemp improves the tilth and carbon contents of soils. Let’s plant the seed!”

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Lifestyles

LEGISLATIVE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN 2016

When the 2014 Farm Bill was signed into law in February of 2014, the hemp amendment to the bill, Sec. 7606 Legitimacy of Industrial Hemp Research, defined industrial hemp as distinct from the Cannabis sativa L. subject to prohibition per the Controlled Substances Act. This was an historic moment in the longstanding effort to industrial hemp is not psychoactive, having less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol on a dry weight basis and therefore presenting no drug value. “High in Omegas and essential amino acids, nutrient-dense hemp seeds are the basisAD of one our most popular lines of non-dairy beverages,” said Jon Gehrs, President of Pacific Foods. “There are often untrue assumptions made about this versatile, sustainable crop, and we’re looking forward to being a part of educating consumers about its robust nutritional benefits, particularly for those following specialty-diets.”

CELEBRITY ENDORSEMENTS Hemp History Week is endorsed by celebrities and high-profile wellness experts, including: • Dr. Andrew Weil • Jason Mraz • Alicia Silverstone • Dar Williams • Phil Lempert • Michael Franti • Ashley Koff R.D. • John Salley • Brendan Brazier • Doug Fine • Elizabeth Kucinich • Kevin Danaher • Ziggy Marley • Joel Salatin • Grammy award-winning band Ozomatli

The bill further allows for states that have already legalized the crop to cultivate hemp within the parameters of state agriculture departments and research institutions. Read the full text of the Legitimacy of Industrial Hemp Research amendment on the Vote Hemp website:http:// www.votehemp.com/PDF/Pages_ from_ farm0127.pdf.

Over half of all states have now removed barriers to hemp cultivation and production, with strong support from farmers, businesses, manufacturers and consumers. Advocates for industrial hemp farming see 2016 as a pivotal political opportunity in which grassroots momentum and bi-partisan support in Congress may finally culminate to declassify industrial hemp as a Schedule 1 Controlled Substance and once again allow states to regulate hemp farming. The 27 states that have legalized industrial hemp farming, per provision Sec. 7606 of the farm bill, include: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia and Virginia. •

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Hemp foods provide a highly nutritious plant-based protein

Join NHA and Be Part of the Solution!

• Help American farmers support their families and their communities • Create new jobs for growers, processors, and entrepreneurs • Bring back a crop that can heal the soil, saves water, and needs no pesticides • Build a U.S. market for American-grown hemp products • Hemp offers sustainable solutions for ... construction, clothing, textiles, auto-parts, bio-plastics, paper, beauty products, healthy foods, and many more uses.

We’re working to make hemp legal at the federal level

Here’s how you can help... Become a Member and get a 30% discount on an individual membership at: NationalHempAssociation.org/HBM • Join our mailing list • Write your representative • Volunteer • • Donate • Educate yourself about hemp •

Visit our website: www.NationalHempAssociation.org

Our D.C. team meets regularly with members of Congress and senior staff to pass the Industrial Hemp Farming Act

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Lifestyles

The

Environmental Impact of Hemp Building. Terms such as sustainability and carbon footprints are used to evaluate many products we use nowadays. Sustainability is something that is very hard to assess especially far into the future so can we apply these evaluations to Building products containing Hemp? By Steve Allin Ireland

As the utilisation of hemp fibres in the form of

t might be useful to describe what we insulation panels does not alter the system of conmean by Hemp Building products. There struction to a great extent it is the more unusual

are 2 materials we builders obtain from the Hemp plant, the fibres which are primarily used to make insulation panels and the hurds or shives, the name given to the woody core particles produced when separating the fibres in the bast or skin from the central woody core. 52

method of producing a masonry like material, from the hurds, that we refer to as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hemp Buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. This Hempcrete is in most cases a combination of the hurds and a binder containing Lime (Calcium Hydroxide) and other additives. The casting of this material around a timber frame which provides the

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Lifestyles

structural strength, produces a complete envelope around the building which provides an easily regulated environment for both energy saving and health benefits. The combination of both insulation and thermal mass creates a problem with building codes as the methods of calculating energy use in buildings both in Europe and the U.S. have been skewed by the fibre insulation industry to suit their materials. ‘R’ values or ‘U’ values as we use in the EU are only relevant to airtight, fibre insulated buildings and do not measure many of the aspects of a buildings

performance in reality. We can see from many tests carried out in Universities especially in France and the UK that Hempcrete performed well above what would be expected if only using these conductivity measurements of ‘R” or ‘U’ values. So we need a The potential new method of measuring for building energy use to make hempcrete more mainstream. homes that This is currently the aim of need virtually several phd students.

no heating or cooling (What no A.C.!!!!!)

As for measuring the sustainability of Hemp or building materials derived from Hemp we can refer to research carried out by the Nova Institute for the MultiHemp project (1.) which compared hemp

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Lifestyles with other natural materials used in the automotive and insulation industries. The conclusions of this research showed how the organic fertiliser system of production was the lowest of the materials measured which included Flax, Jute and Kenaf compared to Hemp produced with mineral fertiliser and organic fertiliser. So we know Hemp can be a low input crop and that it also improves soil condition as we have seen improved yields of successive crops such as barley or wheat. There have also been calculations attempted at the CO2 Emissions of Hempcrete taking into account the amount of CO2 stored by hemp during itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life-cycle and then subtracting the quantity of CO2 emitted during the manufacture of the lime and other additives in the binder. This was first estimated by Ian Pritchett then CEO of Lime Technology at 110kg per m3. This figure was arrived at by assuming that hemp absorbed nearly 2 tonnes of CO2 during itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life but this is hard to quantify and we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know if there is any variation between fibres and hurds and what system is used for harvesting or processing that vary to a degree it could be hard to be definite about.

What we can be absolutely sure about is the impact on the environment from living in a Hemp house or working in a Hempcrete structure. Especially in the developed world using other fairly high tech windows or doors it is quite easy to maintain an interior temperature of between 14 & 18 degrees centigrade with no heating or cooling in the U.K. So the potential for building homes that need virtually no heating or cooling (What no A.C.!!!!!) thus saving vast amounts of energy throughout the modern world. This is a different approach to the norm as we constantly hear about alternative methods of creating energy rather than not using it and one that would have a far better impact than making other sources of energy we as a species are likely to abuse or waste as we have done in the past. At present I am working on projects in more challenging environments such as Haiti and Nepal where just providing shelter from the elements or refuge from earthquakes is of

Lifestyles

higher importance, the use of energy to either heat or cool their homes is something out of the reach on most. Here the mere production of Hemp is more about resilience or survival than an ‘eco’ economy!! • (1.) Carbon Footprint and Sustainability of Different Natural Fibres for the Bio Composites and Insulation Material. Michael Carus, Martha Barth www.biobased.eu/ ecology

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Choices The time is now PTSD is a chronic debilitating disorder. It not only affects the individual, but the family as well. By Dannion Brinkley

THE TIME HAS DEFINITELY COME TO MAKE NEW CHOICES IN THE MEDICAL CARE OF OUR VETERANS, FOR WE ARE AT THE TIPPING POINT OF A MAJOR CRISIS. THIS QUOTE SAYS IT ALL… “The unprecedented use of prescription drugs by soldiers and veterans began during the second Gulf War and continues unabated today, Dr. Peter Breggin said, adding, “The combination of increasing prescribing of such drugs during and after military service has led to violence and suicide and in many cases to chronic mental disability while being treated at the VA. This becomes a disability from which they often can’t recover because of multiple psychiatric drugs.” ~International Business Times April 2014 56

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Veterans

fter reading several studies on the ability of hemp-woven sheets to kill Staph infections, I quickly jumped on the Hemp, Inc. train.

These scientific studies were profoundly eye-opening to the many medical implications of hemp. If you know anything

about Staph, you know that it is at epidemic proportions in hospitals, nationwide and MRSA, a highly contagious form of Staph, is now completely resistant to all anti-biotics. So, the very thought that sheets made of hemp could destroy this dastardly bacteria left me wanting to know more about the medical uses of the cannabis plant, especially for our nation’s Veterans. Both for those returning from war, and those in transition, I was determined to discover if cannabis could play a positive role. This was a major turning point in my life, and my personal mission. I’ve personally spent more than 30 years as an end-oflife-care volunteer, in the Veteran’s Administration. As a Veteran myself, I have acquired an acute awareness of the Veteran’s needs. Along the path of the volunteer, I’ve accrued a pretty good idea of how the VA system works to treat illnesses that were usually contracted while the Veterans were still in active serve. At the very forefront, these conditions include Traumatic Brain Injury, and Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome. This fact led me to do some research on the organization, Weed for Warriors Project (www.wfwproject.org). This group of diligent Veterans is committed to creating a national awareness of the unbelievable possibilities found in cannabis as a medical option to all other prescription drugs they are been given. Many Veterans are living in a total fog due to the “drug cocktails” (a combination of several pain and psychiatric drugs) they are taking on a daily basis. In combination, these drugs are causing our veterans to feel lost, become enraged and perpetrate violence on those they love the most.

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Veterans “The number of veterans prescribed opiates and other pain medications through Veterans Affairs has declined under a drug safety initiative but the aggressive monitoring program may have deadly consequences for some who turn to street drugs or suicide to stop their pain.” ~Military Times March 2014 Feeling driven to change the reality of this egregious condition plaguing our veterans, I reached out to the founder of Weed for Warriors, Kevin Richardson. In my many conversations with him, and other members of the project, I was astounded to learn that when Veterans were weaned off of the prescription drugs, and were prescribed cannabis instead – either edibles or vaporizers – their behavior was altered in the most amazing way. Subsequently, all of the things that usually would irritate and annoy them, suddenly did not. Their family relationships improved as cannabis helped them to be empathetic, calm and present. Thoughts of suicide, divorce and homicide have been dramatically decreased as the result of Veterans implementing their choice for medical cannabis. I found this to be amazing and of paramount importance. It was awe-inspiring for me to hear that cannabis was actually helping these courageous men and women rebuild their lives and closest relationships.

cannabis. If this action will save American families from the often fatal side effects of military service, what are we waiting for? We cannot allow the marriages of our Moms and Dads, sons and daughters, sisters and brothers, who have risked everything for our freedom, to become just more casualties of war. I believe it is time for all of us to become involved in this issue. Please do your own research on this subject, and I urge you to write your members of Congress regarding the passage of bills to legalize the use of medical cannabis. By taking these simple, proactive steps we can all make a difference in the quality of life our Veterans can enjoy. As I read recently, and agree vehemently:

“You can tell a lot about a country by the way they treat their Veterans.” Our country has always been known for its greatness and commitment to the inalienable right to freedom for all. Understanding the use of medical cannabis and fighting for our Veteran’s rights to a fulfilling life, post military service, is now one of the crucial factors in our country’s continuing commitment to freedom and greatness. We must now, as a nation, take a united stand for cannabis as an alternative choice in the medical protocol available to our Veterans! • Dannion Brinkley Co-Founder, The Twilight Brigade www.thetwilightbrigade.com

I was elated by the thought of Cannabis - a simple weed found on all five continents – as a mighty medical agent capable of restoring sanity and a sense of self-pride to our Veterans after they’ve survived the atrocities of combat. Therefore, we must make what appears to be an easier choice: that the Veteran’s Administration starts to prescribe medical

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Did you KNOW? 1. Refusing to grow hemp in America during the 17th and 18th centuries was against the law! You could be jailed in Virginia for refusing to grow hemp from 1763 to 1769. You could even pay taxes with hemp in America from 1631 until the early 1800s!! (LA Times. Aug. 12, 1981.)

2. For thousands of years, 90% of all ships’ sails and rope were made from hemp. The word ‘canvas’ comes from the Middle English word “canevas” which comes from the Latin word 3. cannabis. (Webster’s New World Dictionary.)

4. In 1938, hemp was called ‘Billion Dollar Crop.’ It was the first time a cash crop had a business potential to exceed a billion dollars. (Popular Mechanics, Feb. 1938.) 5. The first crop grown in many states was hemp. 1850 was a peak year for Kentucky producing 40,000 tons. Hemp was the largest cash crop until the 20th century. 6. In 1916, the U.S. Government predicted that by the 1940’s all paper would come from hemp and that no more trees need to be cut down. Government studies report that 1 acre of hemp equals 4.1 acres of trees. Plans were in the works to implement such programs. (U.S. Department of Agriculture Archives.)

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State of Affairs

The U.S. IS BECOMING

HEMP LEGAL

Written by Zev Paiss, NHA Executive DIrector Exclusive to Hemp Nation Magazine – Hemp State by State

“ Farmer voices are key to the success of our grassroots state and national effort

to demonstrate that farmers want the choice to grow hemp – a sustainable cash crop, either instead of cotton or wheat, or as a rotational crop that will hemp remediate damaged soil.

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The National Hemp Association is supporting farmers to grow industrial hemp at the state level through our NHA Affilate Program and our Federal Campaign to pass the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 205-2016 (IHFA) during this Congress.

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State of Affairs

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Hawaii, Minnesota, Indiana, and Kentucky are curIf you are a farmer who wants to grow hemp—or rently working on legislation to expand their previous know one — please add your voice to our Farmer hemp operations. To follow are highlights of their Letter to send a letter to your elected official. The individual bills. link will take you to a website where when you type in your zip code, the software will automatically provide the name and contact info of your U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative. Hawaii: Hawaii House Bill 2555 authorizes the Board of Agriculture to regulate the growing of indusWhile we work to help move the bill to a hearing over trial hemp for research purposes. The bill requires the next couple of months, we thought it would be the regulation of growers selling industrial hemp and helpful to give you an overview of hemp legislation makes an appropriation. HB 2555 has 36 sponsors. at the state level. Given the recent termination of the last sugar cane In 2015 only nine states grew industrial hemp, farm in Hawaii, tens of thousands of acres could be including Colorado, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, replanted with industrial hemp to help bolster and Minnesota, North Dakota, Oregon, Tennessee, and diversify the Hawaiian economy. Vermont. The size of acreage grown across the U.S. ranged from over 2,000 acres in Colorado, to a ¼ Minnesota: In 2015, the University of Minnesota acre research plot in Indiana. harvested the first hemp crop in 60 years to begin studying the potential for hemp for Minnesota farmAt this time, only six states do not have any hemp ers. HF 683 authorizes the Minnesota Department legislation happening during this Congressional sesof Agriculture (MDA) to regulate industrial hemp sion, includes Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Arkansas, in the same manner in which it currently regulates Louisiana, and Ohio. A number of states in including plants and nursery stock. This includes authorizing the MDA to enter a site where industrial hemp is manufactured, distributed, used, handled, or transported in order to inspect, sample, and analyze the product.

STATE HEMP LEGISLATION

Indiana: In Indiana, House Bill 1228 allows the State Seed Commissioner to adopt rules to implement laws concerning industrial hemp. The bill encourages the Indiana University School of Medicine and other state educational institutions to research the use of Cannabidiol oil (CBD) from a hemp plant to treat intractable epilepsy. The bill language provides that an individual who possesses or uses CBD from a hemp plant for the treatment of intractable epilepsy is not subject to criminal penalties for the possession or use of the CBD if certain conditions are met.

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State of Affairs North Carolina: In October of 2015, the North Carolina Senate passed S313 “… to recognize the importance and legitimacy of industrial hemp research, to provide for compliance with portions of the Federal Agricultural Act of 2014, and to promote increased agricultural employment.” The new Hemp Commission would grant applications for hemp farming and coordinate research projects with N.C. State and N.C. A&T Universities. Unfortunately, the legislature did not provide funding to set up the Commission so hemp advocates are actively working to raise $200,000 needs before the Commission can be created and farmers can move forward with planting. If you are in NC or wish to help the NC effort, contact Preston Whitfield at (720) 987-3737 or preston@anaturalbliss.com. New York: The New York legislature passed a hemp and the first permits are now being awarded. Growers are in the process of applying to the DEA for a permit to import seed through Morrisville State College. The bill authorizes the sale, distribution, transportation and processing of industrial hemp.

Alabama: Another state that has recently begun the process to legalize the growing of industrial hemp is Alabama. This past week, Representative Kenneth Cleo Johnson and Senator Paul David Bussman introduced bills which are quickly moving through their respective committees and are expected to pass later in the session. Pennsylvania: – Senate Bill 50 establishes an industrial hemp industry in their Commonwealth, conferring powers and imposing duties on the Department of Agriculture and the Legislative Reference Bureau, prescribing penalties, and establishing an account. Historically in Pennsylvania, particularly in the farming communities of York and Lancaster counties, hemp was very big business. Due to their proximity to the Susquehanna River, these two counties became the epicenter for hemp growing in Pennsylvania. Every township in Lancaster grew hemp, especially the Hempfield Township. Between 1720 and 1870, more than 100 mills in Lancaster county processed hemp fiber. That fiber was used to help cover Conestoga wagons, which were built in the small town of Conestoga, Pennsylvania.

Gold States: Where hemp was grown in 2015 Dark Green States: Where legislation to grow hemp has passed Light Green States: Where hemp legislation has been introduced 62

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State of Affairs Kansas: House Bill 2634 has been introduced in Kansas to assist the state in moving to the forefront of industrial hemp production, development and commercialization of hemp products in agribusiness, alternative fuel production and other business sectors, both nationally and globally and to the greatest extent possible. Missouri: HB1973 will allow those licensed by the Department of Agriculture to grow and handle industrial hemp.

By the end of 2016, the hemp industry will have taken another large step forward to have an even larger percentage of U.S. states – approaching 2/3 of the nation!

If you would like to keep track of any active hemp legislation at the state level, the National Hemp Association has licensed a new resource to track state bills http://cqrcengage.com/nha/statebills. We are making this resource available for free to everyone to help build awareness and support for local hemp legislative efforts. Just click on any state to see all of the bills that have been introduced this session. To learn more, click on the bill number and you will see the introduction date, the chamber, a short bill summary, bill sponsors and the last action taken.

It’s exciting to see the progress industrial hemp is making in the U.S as more and more states legalize hemp. By the end of 2016, the hemp industry will have taken another large step forward to have an even larger percentage of U.S. states – approaching 2/3 of the nation – which will have passed pro-hemp legislation. However, the key to success for many state’s efforts is the ongoing need for hemp to be fully legal at the federal level as often state bills explicit state that their bill is tied to federal legislation. NHA will continue our Washington D.C. efforts and welcomes your support if you would like to donate to the Federal Campaign (LINK). The success of passing the Industrial Hemp Farming Act will move the industry toward the projection quoted in Popular Science in 1938 of hemp “as the next billion dollar crop.” •

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HEMPFACTS

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It takes years for trees to grow until they can be harvested for paper or wood, but Hemp is ready for harvesting only 120 days after it is planted. Hemp can grow on most land suitable for farming, while forests and tree farms require large tracts of land available in only few locations. Harvesting Hemp rather than trees would also eliminate erosion due to logging, thereby reducing topsoil loss and water pollution cause by soil runoff.

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Hemp seed oil can be used to product non-toxic diesel fuel, paint, varnish, detergent, ink and lubricating oil. Because hemp seeds account for up to half the weight of a mature hemp plant, hemp seed is a viable source for these products.

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Hemp seeds contain a protein that is more nutritious and more economical to produce than soybean protein. Hemp seed protein an be used to produce virtually any product made from soybean: tofu, veggie burgers, butter, cheese, salad oils, ice cream, milk, etc. Hemp seed can also be ground into a nutritious flour than can be used to produce baked such as pasta, cookies and breads.

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 1 acre of Hemp will produce as much fiber as 2-3 acres of cotton. Hemp fiber is stronger and softer than cotton, and lasts twice as long as cotton, and will not mildew! Cotton grows only in moderate climates and requires more water than hemp; but hemp is frost tolerant, requiring only moderate amounts of water, and hemp grows in all 50 states! Cotton requires large quantities of pesticides and herbicides—50% of the world’s pesticides/herbicides are used in the production of cotton. Hemp requires no pesticides, no herbicides, and only moderate amounts of fertilizer.

Just as corn can be converted into clean-burning ethanol fuel, so can hemp.

Because hemp produces more biomass than any plant species (including corn) that can be grown in a wide range of climates and locations, hemp has great potential to become a major source of ethanol fuel.

The quality of hemp paper is superior to tree-based paper. Hemp paper will last hundreds of years without degrading, can be recycled many more times than tree-based paper, and requires less toxic chemicals in the manufacturing process than does paper made from trees.

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Literally millions of wild hemp plants currently grow throughout the U.S. Wild hemp, like hemp grown for industrial use, has no drug properties because of its low THC content. U.S. marijuana laws prevent farmers from growing the same hemp plant that proliferates in nature by the millions!

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