What’s old is new again and the economics are promising!
Hemp can now be cultivated under certain conditions in Maryland thanks to this year’s legislation now signed into law by Governor Hogan. Big thanks to Delegate David Fraser Hidalgo and his team for their tireless work in seeing this through.
Why hemp production in Maryland?
Farmers and businesses have been quickly getting up to speed on how best to proceed in Maryland. The question of start up costs has rightly been raised especially with regard to equipment. MC producer Joe Orlow offers, “The specialized machinery can be perhaps be obtained and shared by forming a co-operative of hemp farmers. The labor intensive nature does not have to be a downside. As example, Growing Warriors under Mike Lewis has found employment for veterans.”
Hemp can now be cultivated under certain conditions in Maryland thanks to this year’s legislation now signed into law by Governor Hogan. Big thanks to Delegate David Fraser Hidalgo and his team for their tireless work in seeing this through.
Why hemp production in Maryland?
- Hemp is good for the environment: Hemp requires little to no fertilizers or pesticides, improves soil health, reduces farm runoff that can pollute our waterways, and supports biodiversity.
- Hemp is good for farmers: Hemp is a fast-growing crop that performs well in our climate and can open up new markets for farmers. It also helps build nutrients in the soil so farmers need fewer fertilizers or other costly additives.
- Hemp is good for Maryland: Hemp production can bring new jobs to the state to grow and process the crop and manufacture it into goods, including textiles, construction materials, food, health and beauty products.
Farmers and businesses have been quickly getting up to speed on how best to proceed in Maryland. The question of start up costs has rightly been raised especially with regard to equipment. MC producer Joe Orlow offers, “The specialized machinery can be perhaps be obtained and shared by forming a co-operative of hemp farmers. The labor intensive nature does not have to be a downside. As example, Growing Warriors under Mike Lewis has found employment for veterans.”
Pending Federal Legislation is co-sponsored by 1/3rd of the Senate and a recent resolution touting its potential benefits just passed this month.
More - economic and environmental benefits:
Forbes : A win for Industry and environment
The Guardian: The Plant that Could Boost America's Economy
Our Previous Post on Hemp
There was a productive stakeholder meeting in May 2018 at the MC Farm Bureau. To learn more drop us a line [email protected]
Here at MCA we are working hard on this and so many other issues. Please support this small (but mighty!) award winning nonprofit with you tax deductible gift. And Thanks!
