A draft of the proposed new licensing scheme to allow industrial hemp production in NSW is available for public comment for 28 days.
The Iemma Government passed the Hemp Industry Bill in June this year, paving the way for a new industrial hemp industry in NSW.
Minister for Primary Industries Ian Macdonald put out an invitation to farmers to comment on the proposed licensing regulations, which are necessary to ensure the crop is grown only under licence and only by applicants of "good repute".
“The licensing scheme will be finalised after the 28-day consultation which ends on September 19,” Mr Macdonald said.
Mr Macdonald said industrial hemp would provide farmers with the additional option of another fast-growing summer crop that can be used in rotation with winter grain crops.
“Industrial hemp fibre produced here in NSW could be used in paper products and textiles, load bearing masonry for building, insulation, as an additive to wool in soft textured durable yarns and also as an alternative to fibreglass," he said.
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Source: The Land - Farmonline
Copyright: 2008 Fairfax Media
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Time to speak up on hemp farm licencing - State News - Agribusiness and General - General - The Land