Industrial Hemp

GINA ALESSANDRI MDARD’s Industrial Hemp Program Director

"Growing hemp feels like a responsibility in many ways. From fiber to food to natural medicine, hemp can provide a long list of necessary products for growers and consumers. But it's newly regulated, and there is much to learn; such as what variety is best to grow in your region, or how and where to process hemp? It's inspiring and exciting to think about what Michigan growers will produce and we are thrilled to be a part of this growing hemp movement."

LACEY INGRAO, Hi Hemp Co., Swartz Creek

In 2019, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) launched Michigan’s first industrial hemp program, adding a new crop to the state’s farming community.

Industrial hemp is one of the largest new opportunities for growers after it was legalized in the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill. Hemp is Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) with less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component found in marijuana. Hemp is cultivated to produce fiber, grain, biomass or non-intoxicating medicinal compounds like cannabidiol (CBD).

Michigan is uniquely positioned to grow, process and manufacture industrial hemp as one of the nation’s most agriculturally diverse states. This emerging crop creates new opportunity for our farmers and offers an avenue for new businesses' development.

The 2018 U.S. Farm Bill authorized the commercial production and processing of industrial hemp. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) published its interim final rules to establish a domestic hemp program in the fall of 2019. The Interim Final Rules provide guidance on federal requirements as states draft their hemp plans for approval. MDARD is currently reviewing the rules to identify needed changes to state law. Once statute changes are made, MDARD will submit its plan, and once approved, will provide oversight of the department’s commercial hemp program.

In the meantime, MDARD is using its authority in the 2014 Farm Bill to continue the Industrial Hemp Ag Pilot Program into 2020.

While there is a lot of excitement around the state’s newest crop, many questions remain on the long-term, overall regulation of hemp, CBD and hemp products. There is a steep learning curve for everyone involved in this budding commodity – farmers, federal and state regulators and local authorities. The 2019 and 2020 Industrial Hemp Ag Pilot programs have, and will continue, to provide an opportunity for all to learn.

Michigan’s Public Act 641 of 2018 authorizes the growing and cultivating of hemp and requires the registration and licensing for those interested in growing, processing, and handling hemp. A grower registration is $100, and the processor-handler license is $1,350.

For details on the state’s industrial hemp program and the requirements for growing and processing hemp in Michigan, visit michigan.gov/industrialhemp.