As part of their ongoing efforts to understand the hemp industry and inform sound policies, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced that it will be conducting its third annual survey for hemp farmers. This initiative is essential in collecting valuable data from farmers across the country and gaining insights into the state of the industry.
The USDA’s annual hemp survey is crucial as it not only helps track industry growth but also identifies key challenges that farmers face. By gathering data directly from farmers, the department can make informed decisions and develop policies that support the sustainable growth of the hemp industry.
The 2018 Farm Bill was a turning point for the hemp industry, as it removed federal restrictions on the cultivation and production of hemp. This paved the way for increased research and development and opened up new market opportunities. These factors have contributed to the growing interest in hemp among farmers, making data collection crucial for understanding industry growth.
In the 2022 National Hemp Report, the value of hemp production in the open and under protection for the United States totaled $238 million, down 71 percent from 2021.
The 2023 Hemp Production and Disposition Inquiry survey will be sent to over 6,000 hemp producers in the United States.
“The Hemp Production and Disposition Inquiry will provide critical data about the hemp industry to assist producers, regulatory agencies, state governments, processors, and other key industry entities,” said Marlo D. Johnson, Director, USDA NASS, Great Lakes Regional Office.
The questionnaire covers critical aspects such as collecting information on the total planted and harvested area, yield, production, and value of hemp in the United States in 2023.
The USDA is expected to publish the results of the Hemp Production and Disposition Inquiry survey data on April 17, 2024. This data will provide a comprehensive overview of the state of the hemp industry, helping farmers make informed business decisions and guiding policy-making.
The information collected from this survey will not only benefit farmers but also regulatory agencies and other industry entities. By understanding key trends and challenges, regulators can develop policies that support the growth of the industry while ensuring compliance with regulations.
As the hemp industry continues to grow, it is essential to gather data directly from farmers to inform sound policies and support sustainable growth. The USDA’s third annual survey for hemp farmers is a crucial step in understanding the state of the industry and identifying potential challenges.
By involving stakeholders in the data collection process, the USDA can gain valuable insights into industry trends and make informed decisions that benefit all parties involved. The results of the survey will provide a comprehensive overview of the industry, guiding future production decisions and policy-making.
Through this initiative, we can learn how to improve an industry and lead to more legislation supporting its growth. With the previous year’s numbers showing a decline in hemp production, we hope that the results of this survey will demonstrate growth in the industry, showcasing its potential and opportunities for farmers.
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