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Minnesota’s hemp pilot program will be in effect until USDA has approved a state plan.

December 11, 2019

1 Min Read
industrial hemp field
APPLY FOR LICENSES NOW: Growers and processors of industrial hemp are required to apply for licensing under the Minnesota Hemp Pilot Program. Janet Kubat Willette

Growers and processors interested in hemp production must apply for licensure through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

The department recently announced that its website is open to take applications for the state’s Hemp Pilot Program. The pilot program will continue to be in effect until USDA has approved a state plan. This will allow for uninterrupted production and processing of industrial hemp in Minnesota.

The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act and freed it up for interstate movement. Hemp is legally distinct from marijuana and recognized as an agricultural crop by the federal government.

Hemp farmers will be eligible for crop insurance and grants through USDA.

2020 fee

MDA is required to collect annual fees for registration of sites and certification of hemp crops through THC testing. All fees are non-refundable non-transferrable. New for 2020 is a $50 processing fee for all changes to licenses. Such changes include changing the license holder's name; adding new grow or processing locations; and changing existing grow or processing locations. All changes must be made by submitting a Change Request Form.

Fees are as follows:

  • Growers license — $150

  • Each grow location — $250

  • Each additional inspection for THC testing beyond first harvest — $250

  • Each additional sample for THC testing beyond first sample — $175

  • Change fee — $50

  • Processor license — $250

For more information, contact the industrial hemp division at [email protected] or call at 651-201-6600.

Source: MDA, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.

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