Pennsylvania’s 2021 hemp program applications for commercial growers and processors open Saturday, Dec. 5, for mail-in applicants only. Online applications are expected to open in January.
“Hemp production represents a return to our heritage and a wealth of new opportunities,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “Hemp has seemingly endless uses as a sustainable building materials, fabrics, paper and resins, plus, scores of food products all spell out a bright future for growers and processors alike. Pennsylvania is committed to creating a commercial hemp program that works for small and large growers, new and established businesses, and urban and traditional agriculture.”
In 2020, the second year of the state’s commercial growing program, following a two-year research pilot, the department issued permits for more than 500 growing sites and 60 processors statewide. Permits for the 2020 session are valid through February.
Redding encouraged growers, processors and anyone interested in pursuing business opportunities in the emerging industry to attend the Pennsylvania Hemp Summit Interactive Virtual Summit Dec. 8 and 9. Sessions will include:
– Navigating Rules and Regulations: An Update from Federal and State Leaders
– Filling Processing Needs and Building Lasting Agricultural Infrastructure
– Grow Local, Process Local, Buy Local – Building Our Supply Chains
Register online at pahempsummit.com. Students and Pennsylvania permit holders are eligible for a special registration rate, and call-in options are available for those without internet access. Contact HempSummit@TeamPA.com for details. For more information about call-in options for attending the Virtual Summit, call 717-233-1275.
Applications for 2021 hemp permits will be accepted from Dec. 5 through April 1. The 2021 program, similar to the 2020 program, is operating under the requirements of the 2018 Federal Farm Bill and the USDA Interim Final Rule for hemp production. Processor permits were new in 2020 and continue in 2021. Information about permit holders will again be on the department website to inform business decisions and help connect growers and processors.
New or aspiring growers are encouraged to review application instructions and information on new minimum plant limits and opportunities for written exemptions for qualified commercial projects including planting for removing soil contaminants.
Each property where hemp is grown requires a separate permit. An initial permit costs $150. Permit renewals are $50. Applicants interested in easier application, renewal and online payment are encouraged to wait until January, when the upgraded system is expected to be available.
Visit agriculture.pa.gov/hemp for more information.
