Grow Hemp in Alaska
1) What is the purpose of the State of Alaska Industrial Hemp Pilot Program?
The new law authorizes the Alaska Department of Natural Resources (DNR), through the Division of Agriculture, to create an Industrial Hemp Pilot Program to research the growth, cultivation, and marketing of industrial hemp. The purpose of the pilot program is to increase the knowledge of how industrial hemp production, cultivation, and marketing may increase agricultural production in Alaska and contribute to the economy.
2) What are some commercial uses of industrial hemp?
According to the Congressional Research Service (March 10, 2017), hemp is found in 25,000 products across nine submarkets: agriculture, textiles, recycling, automotive, furniture, food & beverages, paper, construction materials, and personal care.
Examples include fabrics and textiles, home furnishings, construction and insulation materials, auto parts and composites, animal bedding, papermaking inputs, oil absorbents, and alternative food/feed proteins. Seed oil is used in soaps, shampoos, lotions, bath gels, cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and therapeutic products. Hemp has also been promoted as a potential biodiesel feedstock and cover crop.
3) How do I apply for participation in the Industrial Hemp Program?
Once regulations for the Industrial Hemp Pilot Program are adopted, interested parties may apply to participate as registrants. Applications will be reviewed and approved by the Division of Agriculture in compliance with statutory and regulatory standards.
4) Will there be fees associated with the industrial hemp pilot program?
Yes. All applicants must pay a fee. The law (Ch. 5, SLA 2018) requires the cost of regulating industrial hemp in Alaska be completely covered by those fees. Specific amounts are addressed in regulations.
5) Will testing be required for industrial hemp or hemp products?
Yes. All industrial hemp grown, harvested, or processed will require testing—paid for by the registrant—to validate compliance with the ≤ 0.3% THC threshold.