July 31, 2015

Purdue Extension To Host Industrial Hemp Production Workshop

Commercial hemp cultivation remains illegal in Indiana for now, but a state law changed last year permits hemp research. - Adrian Cable, CC-BY-SA-2.0

Commercial hemp cultivation remains illegal in Indiana for now, but a state law changed last year permits hemp research.

Adrian Cable, CC-BY-SA-2.0

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) — Indiana farmers interested in industrial hemp's economic potential can learn about the best production practices for that still-illegal crop at an upcoming Purdue Extension event.

Hemp was an important source of oilseed and fiber in the U.S. until a 1937 federal law ended the industry.

Commercial hemp cultivation remains illegal in Indiana for now, but a state law changed last year permits hemp research.

Purdue University researchers are growing hemp to assess its best production practices, yields and pest- and disease-management.

Purdue Extension experts will discuss those findings and hemp's legal issues at an Aug. 25 workshop at Purdue's Meigs Farm near Lafayette.

Hemp seed is a valuable oil source and a good protein source for animal feed. Its fibers can be used for both textiles and building materials.

Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.

 

Related News

Gen Z thinks Indianapolis’ vibe is OK, but there’s room for improvement
Purdue launches pilot program with a grand vision — roads that charge electric vehicles wirelessly
Reentry Resource Fair aims to help formerly incarcerated people return to society