Hemp, which contains little THC, is rich in CDB, which has a range of health and therapeutic uses.
At the moment hemp can be grown for its oil, fibre and seeds but rules will need to change for NZ growers to use its CBD for lucrative nutraceutical products.
Returns for farmers would be significant and hemp appears to fit into a mixed arable rotation pretty well.
So, is it time to spark up our hemp industry?
Bryan Gibson
Hemp could be billion-dollar industry if rules change
A new report believes hemp could be another export crop success, comparable to wine or kiwifruit, worth $2 billion and supply 20,000 jobs by 2030.
Property Brokers strengthens South Island presence
Real estate company Property Brokers has bought Otago-based Southern Wide Real Estate, extending its reach in the South Island.
Govt announces plan to clean up Central Otago waterways
The Government has joined forces with Central Otago communities to clean up waterways, making the Manuherekia catchment the third exemplar catchment to be targeted as part of their plan to support community-led programmes.
School milk supply redirected
Fonterra will finish the Milk for Schools programme at the end of the year, while putting more support and products into lower-decile school breakfasts, charities and food banks.
FARMSTRONG: Farming’s never-ending opportunities
When poor health impacted Vicky O’Connor’s ability to work on-farm, she picked up a camera and started her photography career again. Now, she’s sharing her story to help others.
Tonight on Sarah’s Country
7.10pm – Former trade minister Tim Groser discusses his grave concerns over the rise of food nationalism.
7.20pm – Freshwater Leaders’ Group chair John Leyland-Peno explains why new freshwater rules should have little impact on those already meeting high environmental standards.
7.30pm – Close to $200 million in live export income is at risk as the Minister of Agriculture seeks safety assurance for NZ’s live cattle export trade. Animal Trade Advisory Council chair Jim Edwards explains the situation.
7.40pm – A new report by Dr Nick Marsh predicts hemp could be another export crop success, comparable to wine or kiwifruit, worth $2 billion and supply 20,000 jobs by 2030. He reveals the thinking behind his claims.
