Is industrial hemp the same as marijuana?

No. Even though they are both Cannabis sativa L., Industrial hemp is the non-psychoactive, low-THC, oilseed, and fiber varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant. Hemp has absolutely no use as a recreational drug.

Is hemp legal to grow in the United States?

YES! Thanks to the 2018 Agricultural Improvement Act (Farm Bill) hemp is non longer a controlled substance. However, hemp will still be regulated and can only be grown with a permit. Each state will have to submit their program to USDA for approval or have passed legislation to remove hemp from the state-controlled substances act and allow for application through the USDA’s program

Information on growing hemp in Missouri can be found on the Department of Agriculture website: https://agriculture.mo.gov/plants/industrial-hemp/faq.php

What are some things that hemp can be used for?

Hemp's extraordinary strength to weight ratio makes it one of the most versatile biomaterials on earth. With proper cultivation and processing, it can be used for a virtually limitless number of applications. In 1938 Popular Mechanics described hemp as having “over 25,000 uses . . . ranging from dynamite to cellophane.”

Throughout history, hemp has been used primarily for its fiber; commonly rope and fabric. Currently, hemp fiber is being used in many different industries for a variety of uses, including but not limited to building materials, animal bedding, plastics, and textiles.

Hemp seeds are also a superfood because they are a great source of protein, fiber, omegas, and many vitamins and minerals. They can also be used in food and feed for livestock, as well as pressed into oil for foods and cosmetics.

Are there USDA Programs available for hemp growers?

Persons may be eligible for many USDA programs. More information is available on USDA’s website.

Can pesticides be used on industrial hemp?

The EPA has approved some pesticide labels for use on industrial hemp. Those labels are listed here: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/pesticide-products-registered-use-hemp

Pesticide labels must also be registered in Missouri prior to use in Missouri. As of May 2021, many, but not all, EPA-approved pesticides were registered in Missouri and therefore approved for appropriate use on industrial hemp in Missouri.

Specific labels can be searched to evaluate state registration status here: https://apps.mda.mo.gov/moplants/ProductRegFSA/BrandSearch.aspx