Informational Meeting to be held in Detroit Lakes on Growing Hemp this Week

Indoor Hemp Production facility via Minnesota Department of Agriculture

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – Hemp and Fava Bean growers as well as those interested in growing the crops will meet this week in Detroit Lakes.

HPS Food & Ingredients, the largest privately owned Canadian bulk hempseed ingredient supplier and Verve Seeds, a company specializing in hemp breeding, field testing, and certified seed sales of elite hemp varieties will be hosting an informational meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 6 from 2-4 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in Detroit Lakes on growing Hemp and Fava Beens as well as the Hemp Grain and Hemp Fiber markets.

“We have been meeting with growers around the region and many are seeing the benefits and revenue potential of hemp grain and fiber. The fava bean is fairly new the area but is a plant based protein source that many of the bigger food and ingredient companies are sourcing in higher numbers,” said Randy Stratton, President of Verve Seeds.

Hemp growers in Minnesota operated under a hemp pilot program from 2016-2020. In 2021, the program began operating under a new, federally approved state plan that governs production and regulation. Online applications are now open for anyone wishing to grow or process hemp in Minnesota in 2023. A license from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is required for individuals and businesses.

Applications must be submitted by April 30, 2023, and a license is good for the 2023 calendar year.

“The hemp grain story has shown great promise for growers in the region. The market for hemp flour now is really compelling,” said Stratton.

The informational meeting on Tuesday is free and open to the public, for additional information you’re encouraged to call Stratton at 605-359-2937.

“The hemp grain story has shown great promise for growers in the region. The market for hemp flour now is really compelling,” said Stratton.  

The informational meeting on Tuesday is free and open to the public, for additional information you’re encouraged to call Stratton at 605-359-2937.