AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala.—Registration for the 2020 Alabama Industrial Hemp Program opens Oct 7. Growers, processors, handlers and universities will have until Nov. 14 to submit applications.
Documentation Required
Dennis Delaney, team leader for Alabama Extension’s Hemp Action Team, said it is important applicants submit all required documentation as well the application fee.
“Everyone must submit a fully completed application, a required criminal background check, and the $200 non-refundable application fee,” Delaney said. “Not submitting all your required documentation could delay or prevent your application from being approved.
Interested growers will be able to download application forms and other required materials from the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI). The anticipated dates for accepting hemp applications for the 2020 Hemp Program will be Oct. 7 through Nov. 14.
In 2018, the ADAI rolled out a licensing and inspection program for the production of industrial hemp.
Delaney emphasizes that the program is highly regulated.
“It is important for the public to understand that no one can grow, transport or process hemp without a permit issued by the ADAI,” he said.
In 2019, permitted growers planted the first legal crop of industrial hemp in Alabama since World War II.
Extension’s Hemp Action Team
Alabama Extension’s Hemp Action team is developing management practices and protocols related to cultivation and in particular insect and disease management for industrial hemp.
“The team has identified a number of insects and diseases on hemp in Alabama this year,” said Kassie Conner, a plant pathologist on the team. “We do not know yet if all of them are causing economic damage or are merely incidental.”
Conner and Delaney said current licensed growers should contact members of the team for help identifying insect pests and diseases.
More Information
Find more information about the Alabama Extension Hemp Action Team as well as contact information by visiting Alabama Extension online.