Industrial hemp is an incredibly valuable crop that has been cultivated for thousands of years. It has many uses, including being a key component in building materials that can be used to build more environmentally-friendly homes across the nation. Hemp can also be useful in food production, fiber production, oil extraction, and much more.
The History
Though hemp and its legalization are still hot topics for discussion today, many people do not realize just how integral hemp was in the early history of the United States, and even humanity itself. The cultivation of hemp stretches back ten millennia and is filled with intrigue and controversy.
It wasn't until the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 that states and tribal governments were allowed to establish their own industrial hemp productions and regulations. The bill also removed hemp from the federal Controlled Substances Act. Later in 2019, Florida’s State Hemp Program was established. The program was created to regulate the cultivation of industrial hemp within the Sunshine State.
Under national law, the product is currently recognized as a Schedule I drug. Simply put, the federal government identifies hemp and marijuana as easily abusive with no currently accepted medical use.
Florida’s Hemp Industry
Florida is different. In order to legally cultivate hemp within the state, the designated entity must receive a hemp cultivation license issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture. There is no fee associated with these licenses, opening many doors for determined investors to get involved within the hemp industry. However, there are several qualifications that one must meet to be considered for licensure.
Hemp Industry Services
Many SVN | Saunders Ralston Dantzler advisors specialize in this ever-evolving hemp industry. These advisors offer services in site relocation, land management, and business brokerage. As this product continues to break barriers within the agricultural market, SVN | Saunders Ralston Dantzler will be there to assist aspiring hemp farmers succeed in the industry.
At past Lay of the Land Conferences, the firm hosted leaders like Holly Bell, Director of Cannabis for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and Dr. Zachary Brym, UF/IFAS Industrial Hemp Pilot Project Director.
If you are interested in getting a head start in this growing industry, contact one of our expert land advisors today. Boasting a wide range of expertise, our team will be sure to identify the perfect investment plan for your needs.
Contact Our Hemp Specialists
About Saunders Real Estate
Saunders Real Estate is a leading land and commercial real estate brokerage serving buyers, sellers, investors, and landowners across the Southeastern United States for 30 years. With over 100 advisors and offices in major U.S. markets including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina, we specialize in large-acreage land transactions, commercial property sales and leasing, and property management.
To reflect our legacy and continued growth, Saunders Real Estate operates through two divisions – Saunders Land and Saunders Commercial. Our expertise spans agriculture, conservation, recreation, residential development, and commercial real estate, supported by specialized services such as forestry, land management, and investment acquisitions.
Today, Saunders Real Estate is recognized as a trusted authority in the region, delivering exceptional results through experienced leadership, innovative strategies, and a client-focused approach.