-Magdalen Lindeberg
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo convened the Industrial Hemp Summit on April 18 at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), and new plans were announced to foster growth of a crop for which cultivation has been long banned across the U.S.
The hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) has been used historically for its fiber, oil and medicinal properties. There are genetically distinct biotypes of hemp, some of which have low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels, the principal intoxicating agent in marijuana types of Cannabis. These low-THC biotypes types (referred to as industrial hemp or simply hemp) are used for fiber, hempseed oil, and seed production. Leveraging the benefits of location and industry-government-academia partnerships, New York is poised to capitalize on emerging new markets for hemp products.
Research and Extension Needs:
School of Integrative Plant Science (SIPS) Interim Director Chris Smart spoke on critical areas where research and extension are needed to ensure optimal productivity and quality of industrial hemp in New York State.
- Identify best practices for optimal hemp performance in different locations across New York
- Assess seed quality and vigor, and enhance stand establishment by seed treatments
- Identify key hemp pests in New York State
- Develop and extend hemp resources to New York growers
- Initiate an industrial hemp breeding program for New York State
During the panel discussion “Researching Hemp’s Potential in the State of New York”, Don Viands (SIPS Section of Plant Breeding and Genetics) reported results from the first year of hemp trials.
Hemp in New York:
The 2014 U.S. Farm Bill legalized the growth of hemp for research by departments of agriculture or higher education institutions in states where it has been approved by law. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, D-Endwell and State Sen. Tom O’Mara, R-Big Flats, sponsored legislation that created New York’s pilot program. Governor Cuomo signed the law in December 2015. Cornell University and SUNY Morrisville were issued research permits in 2016, with subsequent authorization granted to SUNY Sullivan and Binghamton University.
Read More:
- Hemp Summit Looks at New York’s Next Big Cash Crop (CALS)
- Industrial hemp: NYs new cash crop (Ithaca Journal)