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Industrial Hemp Frequently Ask Questions - Plants
- Is hemp the same thing as marijuana?
- What can be done with Hemp?
- How do I apply for a Hemp Grower's License?
- Can I process Hemp in Illinois?
- If I grow Hemp, will it be tested?
- What if my hemp is non-compliant?
Yes and no. Industrial Hemp and marijuana are both Cannabis sativa L., however, they are very different. Marijuana contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient that has a psychoactive effect on the user. Hemp, on the other hand, has 0.3% or less THC and has no psychoactive effect.
Hemp has thousands of potential uses ranging from building materials to food to cloth. Another derivative of Hemp is Cannabinol, also known as CBD. Some people believe that CBD can have therapeutic benefits for pain, anxiety, and inflammation.
The application to be a hemp grower is available on the Department's website.
Yes. According to Illinois law, Hemp processors must register with the Department of Agriculture.
Yes. Every commercial hemp lot will need to be tested. For official testing please contact a Department approved laboratory.
Non-compliant Hemp will need to be remediated, or disposed of according to Illinois’ Hemp Plan.