WAUSAU, Wis. (WAOW) — Since Wisconsinites began to grow hemp again, more and more are entering the field. But it could take time for the cash cow to come to the dairyland.
Hemp production is nothing new to Wisconsin; the badger state was once a leader in the nation. However, production was restricted in the early 1900’s.
In 2017, farmers were once again allowed to put seeds in the ground and start selling. But that comes with restrictions.
Janelle Wehr with UW Extension of Marathon County said, “the biggest question I’ve heard is… ‘what does the permit process look like?”
That question, and many more, were brought to the forefront Monday night at the UW Extension, where an experienced grower presented to the local Master Gardeners.
Tim Goskowicz sat in the crowd, looking to learn more about his land in Marathon County. “I wanted to see what kind of soil is needed for hemp growing,” said Goskowicz. “What kind of climate, what kind of terrain?”
He’s not looking to grow hemp himself. Instead, he’s looking to rent his land to a local hemp farmer. He said, “the startup costs are enormous to buy specialized equipment to do this.”
Whether you’re looking to start farming hemp or just get involved with the industry, you can find additional resources on the DATCP website. Or, just ask your local agriculture agent.
