Grow Hemp in Iowa
1) How to Apply for an Iowa Hemp License in 2021?
Applications for outdoor planting are closed for 2021 (deadline was May 1).
Applications for indoor planting are accepted year-round.
Apply at hemp.iowaagriculture.gov.
See Which hemp license is right for me? (flow chart).
2) How many acres and what hemp products are allowed?
The USDA approved Iowa’s hemp plan, allowing individual farmers to grow up to 40 acres of hemp.
Law permits the production, processing, and marketing of many hemp products but excludes recreational marijuana, smokable hemp, and hemp products for animals.
3) Iowa’s & Illinois’ Midwestern Hemp Database Partnership?
The University of Illinois Extension collaborates with growers to collect field data and share research via the Midwestern Hemp Database. Producers can sign up for the growing season at go.illinois.edu/HempDatabase.
Growers who participate receive discounted cannabinoid testing. See the 2020 Report and Project Overview.
Sign up form: Click here.
4) Is it legal to sell consumable hemp products in Iowa?
Yes. As of March 3, 2021, DIA administrative rules legalized hemp products for human consumption (processing, manufacture, and retail). Animal-use hemp products remain illegal.
More info: DIA Consumable Hemp Webpage.
5) Is crop insurance available for hemp?
Yes. USDA FSA offers limited coverage via the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP). Eligible uses include hemp for grain, seed, fiber, and CBD/phytocannabinoids.
More info: NAP Fact Sheet.
Contact your county FSA office or Amanda Weigel (Amanda.Weigel@usda.gov, 515-331-8471). Note: Beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers may qualify for reduced premiums.