Soon, Vermont farmers might gain a new chance to bring potentially lucrative diversity to their operations. Governor Jim Douglas permitted a law allowing the farming of industrial hemp to pass, although he didn't sign it himself. But those who promote the vibrant, expanding business of hemp still need patience.



Because hemp and marijuana are considered the same plant in the eyes of the law, cultivation of hemp is illegal. Lots of law makers think a change in the policy will take place. Proponents insist that hemp is vital for cosmetics, garments, and even for food production. The Agriculture Agency is prepared to change even more after these new laws are passed.

Corn production in Vermont is far less than in the Midwest, totaling only 90,000 acres each year, but that does not mean that Vermont can survive without good rotation crops. Candle making and dairy farming are two areas of commercial concern in Vermont that would profit from the growing of hemp. Right now the hemp market is small, but it is rapidly growing into the mainstream marketplace. A yearly average of 16,500 acres of hemp is produced for use in consumable food products by farmers in Canada. Hemps other potential use in Vermont is affordable bedding for over 140,000 cows.

The bill was opposed by the Police Department, since hemp was considered too closely associated with marijuana. The governor states that the reason he did not sign the bill was the link between hemp and marijuana. The Agricultural Agency must now create rules regarding hemp cultivation so that farmers can obtain licenses once federal law is changed. North Dakota is the other state who has done the same. Hemp agriculture is legal in many countries today, including Canada. In 1937, growing hemp in the United States was banned although the suspension was lifted temporarily during World War II.