Pennsylvania accepting applications for 2021 commercial hemp production

The state is opening the applications for its 2021 hemp program for commercial growers and processors.

The state Department of Agriculture will begin accepting mail-in applications Dec. 5. Online applications will be accepted starting in January.

This year was the second year of the state’s commercial growing program following a two-year research pilot.

The state issued permits to more than 500 growing sites and 60 processors, which are valid through 2021.

“Hemp production represents a return to our heritage and a wealth of new opportunities,” said state Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “Hemp has seemingly endless uses as 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.”

Applications for 2021 Hemp permits will be accepted from Dec. 5, 2020 through April 1, 2021. 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.

For those who want more information, the Pennsylvania Hemp Summit Interactive Virtual Summit will be held Dec. 8 and 9. It will provide information on navigating regulations, filling processing needs, building infrastructure and supply chains.