Pubdate: Tue, 14 May 2013
Source: Denver Post (CO)
Copyright: 2013 The Denver Post Corp
Contact:  http://www.denverpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/122
Author: Steve Raabe

U.S.'S FIRST INDUSTRIAL HEMP CROP IN DECADES IS PLANTED IN SPRINGFIELD

Springfield farmer Ryan Loflin on Monday planted the nation's first 
industrial hemp crop in almost 60 years.

Loflin's plans to grow hemp already have been chronicled, and 
Monday's planting attracted the attention of more media in 
southeastern Colorado and a documentary film crew.

Hemp is genetically related to marijuana but contains little or no 
THC, the psychoactive substance in marijuana. Hemp has dozens of uses 
in food, cosmetics, clothing and industrial materials.

Its cultivation in small test plots became legal last year under a 
Colorado law. The passage of Amendment 64 in November allowed 
commercial growing, even though hemp, like marijuana, is illegal 
under federal law.

Loflin is planting 60 acres on acreage previously used to grow 
alfalfa. He and business partner Chris Thompson also are installing a 
seed press to produce hemp oil.

Collaborators in the documentary include the Colorado-based advocacy 
group Hemp Cleans and hemp-products company Hemp Inc.

"This is monumental for our industry," said Bruce Perlowin, chief 
executive of Hemp Inc. "It will unlock a clean industrial revolution 
that will be good for the economy, good for jobs and good for the environment."
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom