Ron Strider
Well-Known Member
Farmers, businesses, universities and research groups can apply to grow and process industrial hemp through a state pilot program.
Applications are open through Nov. 22. To apply, people must fill out an application form, which can be found and downloaded online, and submit it along with a $500 non-refundable application fee to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Earlier this year, the program was expanded to include private entities. There are more than 20 partners participating and growing industrial hemp on about 2,000 acres in New York.
"Industrial hemp has the potential to become an economic engine not just in New York, but across the country and with this effort, we can lead the way in this emerging industry," said Governor Andrew Cuomo in a statement. "By expanding industrial hemp research, we are opening the doors to innovative ideas that could provide a major boost to our farms and communities, creating new jobs, and laying the foundation for future economic growth."
Hemp is derived from the same plant as marijuana, but industrial hemp has a low level of THC, the chemical that gets drug users high. It is used in cosmetics, biofuels, building materials, clothing and nutritional supplements.
In July Cuomo signed legislation aimed at expanding the growth of industrial hemp in New York. The law amended an existing statute to ensure that industrial hemp is considered an agricultural product and is treated similarly to other crops and seeds. It also established an industrial hemp seed certification program and authorized industrial hemp data collection.
The state also launched a $5 million grant fund, administered by Empire State Development, to cover capital costs of processing industrial hemp. Applicants who meet the necessary qualifications can receive grants of up to $500,000.
"The resurgence of industrial hemp manufacturing and processing in the U.S. is bringing new promise to dozens of industries, including agriculture, which is critical to New York State's economy," said Richard Ball, commissioner of the state's Department of Agriculture and Markets, in a statement.
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Applications are open through Nov. 22. To apply, people must fill out an application form, which can be found and downloaded online, and submit it along with a $500 non-refundable application fee to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Earlier this year, the program was expanded to include private entities. There are more than 20 partners participating and growing industrial hemp on about 2,000 acres in New York.
"Industrial hemp has the potential to become an economic engine not just in New York, but across the country and with this effort, we can lead the way in this emerging industry," said Governor Andrew Cuomo in a statement. "By expanding industrial hemp research, we are opening the doors to innovative ideas that could provide a major boost to our farms and communities, creating new jobs, and laying the foundation for future economic growth."
Hemp is derived from the same plant as marijuana, but industrial hemp has a low level of THC, the chemical that gets drug users high. It is used in cosmetics, biofuels, building materials, clothing and nutritional supplements.
In July Cuomo signed legislation aimed at expanding the growth of industrial hemp in New York. The law amended an existing statute to ensure that industrial hemp is considered an agricultural product and is treated similarly to other crops and seeds. It also established an industrial hemp seed certification program and authorized industrial hemp data collection.
The state also launched a $5 million grant fund, administered by Empire State Development, to cover capital costs of processing industrial hemp. Applicants who meet the necessary qualifications can receive grants of up to $500,000.
"The resurgence of industrial hemp manufacturing and processing in the U.S. is bringing new promise to dozens of industries, including agriculture, which is critical to New York State's economy," said Richard Ball, commissioner of the state's Department of Agriculture and Markets, in a statement.
News Moderator: Ron Strider 420 MAGAZINE ®
Full Article: Channel - Times Union
Author: Madison Iszler
Contact: Help: Contact Us - Times Union
Photo Credit: Mary Esch
Website: Albany, Troy, Schenectady, Saratoga News, Weather, Sports, Capitol | timesunion.com - Times Union
