One example Phillips gave was a rope-maker based out of Missoula.

“I gave him some sample material and he made a beautiful rope out of it,” said Phillips. “He told me he never thought that he would handle hemp grown on United States soil in his lifetime.”

Other small crafters have reached out to Phillips, including a purse-maker, with an interest in purchasing her “grown in the USA” hemp. She has been in contact with paper and clothing companies, both of whom Phillips said reacted with enthusiasm at the possibility of having U.S.-grown hemp in the future.

U.S.-grown hemp has been very difficult to obtain in the past due to the federal restrictions on the crop. The best label U.S. manufacturers could hope for was “hemp grown in North America,” which generally meant the hemp was imported from Canada. The U.S. imports a lot of hemp from Canada, France and China. France is the world’s leading producer of hemp, with China coming in as a close second.

Some of Phillips’ hemp will go to Montana Tech, where it will be strength tested against other natural fibers, including bamboo. The remainder will be bailed and sold as demand dictates.

Phillips said she is very glad to be working with local crafters and universities because they help provide feedback for her crop.