USA: South Dakota leads in industrial hemp production

In the 2024 session, the South Dakota Industrial Hemp Association, in collaboration with the state's Department of Agriculture and the governor's office, successfully aligned state hemp regulations with federal standards, particularly concerning the remediation of crops with THC levels above 0.3%. Key legislative achievements included adjustments allowing for hemp crop remediation, clarification on hemp stock bales licensing, and the extension of processor licenses. Despite challenges, including a limited number of processing facilities which has restricted market opportunities for hemp products, the industry is optimistic. With only one processing plant currently in Winfred and another expected to be completed next year, hemp production is projected to modestly increase to about 4,000 acres. These developments are crucial for supporting the growing interest in hemp cultivation and enabling producers to manage larger acreages, positioning hemp as a profitable rotational crop alongside traditional ones like corn and soybeans.