Grow Hemp in Iowa
1) How to Apply for an Iowa Hemp License in 2021?
Applications for outdoor planting are no longer accepted for 2021. The deadline was May 1.
Applications for indoor planting are accepted year-round.
To apply, visit hemp.iowaagriculture.gov.
Which hemp license is right for me? | Flow chart
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2) How many acres and what type of hemp products are allowed?
The USDA has approved the state’s proposed regulatory plan, clearing the way for an individual farmer to grow up to 40 acres of hemp.
This law legalizes the production, processing and marketing of many, but not all, hemp products in Iowa. It does not legalize the recreational use of marijuana, smokable hemp, nor the use and sale of hemp and hemp derivatives for animals
3) Iowa’s and Illinois' Midwestern Hemp Database 2021 Partnership Opportunity?
University of Illinois Extension commercial agriculture educators are working with growers to source field data and provide cutting-edge research through the new Midwestern Hemp Database. Producers can sign up now for the 2021 growing season online at go.illinois.edu/HempDatabase. In the mutually beneficial project, hemp producers submit information about their crop and university staff analyze and share that data with the public. In exchange for their involvement, growers receive discounted cannabinoid testing on samples. A report containing summary findings of the 2020 growing season can be found here.
Midwestern Hemp Database 2020 Report
Midwestern Hemp Database Project Overview
Sign up now for the 2021 season
4) Is it legal to sell consumable hemp products, including over-the-counter CBD, legal in Iowa?
On March 3, 2021, the Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA) administrative rules take effect, legalizing the processing, manufacture and retail sale of hemp products for human consumption. Products intended for animal consumption remain illegal in Iowa. Go to the DIA consumable hemp webpage (https://dia.iowa.gov/consumable-hemp) for more information. Frequently asked questions and a link to the registration website for manufactures and retails can be found on the webpage.
5) Is crop insurance available for hemp?
Yes, The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is offering limited coverage available on the 2021 hemp crop via the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP). (https://www.fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Public/usdafiles/FactSheets/noninsured_crop_disaster_assistance_program-nap-fact_sheet.pdf) Hemp raised for commercial grain, seed, fiber, and CBD or other phytocannabinoids may be eligible if all FSA requirements can be met. NOTE: Beginning farmers and socially disadvantage farmers, including women, etc., may be eligible for reduced premiums. Sign-up deadline: March 15. Talk to your county FSA office for more details, or Amanda Weigel at Amanda.Weigel@usda.gov or 515-331-8471.