Is Hemp Controversial?

Unfortunately, the politics of hemp has for over 60 years interfered with the development of hemp-based textiles and many other useful hemp products. A campaign of misinformation, initiated early in the 20th century, stands in stark contrast to scientific evidence. As noted above, the hemp plant grown commercially for fiber has no significant value as a recreational drug. George Washington even grew hemp for the production of rope and other materials.

The hemp plant commercially grown for fiber has no significant value as a recreational drug.

Recognizing this distinction and the opportunities presented by hemp cultivation today, many countries have moved to legalize industrial hemp. Today, hemp is grown around the world, including Europe, Russia, Ukraine, China, Australia, and North America. According to the Hemp Industries Association, the total domestic value of 2015 retail hemp products sold in the US was $573 million. Much of the raw material used in producing those products was imported, but that’s changing quickly as the US moves towards federal regulation.

The value of this versatile, easy to grow, eco-friendly crop is becoming more and more apparent. In many places, hemp farmers routinely make more than 10 times the amount per acre than grain farmers. This represents a promising option for farmers whose current crops experience reduced demand. Tobacco farmers take note!