The inclusion of hemp in the USDA’s Census of Agriculture marks a pivotal moment for hemp cultivators and industry insiders. The 2022 Ag Census, unveiled on February 13, 2024, integrates hemp as a distinct category, setting the stage for enhanced federal regulation and fostering a deeper understanding of the sector's dynamics.
The Significance Unveiled
The significance of hemp’s recognition in this comprehensive agricultural data collection can hardly be overstated. This integration facilitates specialized research and state- and county-specific insights, shining a light on the sector's health and trends.
For field crops, the Ag Census noted that in 2022, there were:
Number of hemp farms | Acreage | Pounds |
215 for hemp fiber | 5,841 | 11.1 million |
1,893 for floral (CBD and other cannabinoids) | 10,557 | 11 million |
70 for hemp grain | 3,164 | 886,702 |
125 for other purposes | 196 | 215,744 |
Number of hemp farms | Square Feet |
252 for clones or transplants | 1.4 million |
673 complete grows | 3.5 million |
97 seed farms | 553,975 |
For nursery crops (starter materials), the Census recorded:
However, it also highlights the challenges faced due to the absence of consistent federal regulation, particularly impacting hemp-derived products' market growth.
A Glimpse into the Decline
Recent reports, including last year's National Hemp Report, paint a picture of the industry's struggles, with a notable decline in both industrial and floral hemp acreage. The shift in the landscape is evident as floral hemp, once the backbone of U.S. hemp production, sees its dominance wane. This downturn mirrors broader agricultural trends, with Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack pointing out the overall decrease in farms and farmland since 2017.
Untapped Potential Amidst Regulatory Hurdles
The inclusion of hemp in the Ag Census not only validates its economic significance but also underscores the vast potential for growth, especially in industrial hemp.
Yet, the current regulatory framework imposes unnecessary hurdles on growers, likening them to cannabinoid producers and dampening enthusiasm for crop diversification.
Advocating for Change
The detailed breakdown of hemp production categories in the Ag Census paves the way for advocating more nuanced regulatory approaches. This distinction could significantly lower the barriers for industrial hemp farmers, distinguishing their needs from those producing cannabinoids.
State and County Breakdowns Reveal Market Insights
The Ag Census data reveals intriguing state-specific trends, from Texas leading in hemp fiber farming to North Dakota's substantial hemp grain acreage. Oregon and California emerge as key players in the CBD and cannabinoid hemp market, highlighting the diverse applications and geographical distribution of hemp cultivation across the U.S.
Shout out to hemp growers and cannabinoid producers
The inclusion of hemp in the USDA Census is a significant acknowledgment of its role in America's agricultural landscape. As the industry navigates regulatory challenges and explores its full potential, this recognition serves as a foundational step towards broader acceptance and growth.
Embracing technologies like Yamato’s rotary evaporator, spray dryer, laboratory oven, and Type I water purification system can simplify your product development and lower your overhead cost. Let us help you stay ahead in a competitive market.