Kings County Could be Home to Hemp

Source: ksee24.com

By KSEE News

Updated Jul 26, 2011 at 6:21 PM PDT

Hemp could be the next cash crop in Kings County. A Senate bill to legalize the cultivation could be gaining more support. The Kings County Board of Supervisors will take a look at the Senate bill on Wednesday and consider writing a letter of support.

If the bill passes, hemp will be planting roots in Kings County. “One acre of industrialized hemp is as profitable as 5 acres of trees,” Michele Costa Executive Director of the Kings County Farm Bureau.

Hemp products are legal to sell but the plant is illegal to grow. Senate Bill 676 introduced by Senator Mark Leno (D-San Francisco) wants to change the definition of marijuana to exclude industrial hemp. If that happens the bill would allow hemp farming in five counties including Imperial, Kern, Kings, San Joaquin and Yolo counties.

Some fear the hemp crop will increase crime and encourage marijuana grows. “The Kings County Sheriff David Robinson spoke to us; he doesn't seem to be concerned,” says Costa. “It will be required that at least 5 acres of industrial hemp is included together so it [bill 676] does eliminate farming it, literally in your backyard.”

Hemp catches flack for its close relation to marijuana. Hemp is the male plant and marijuana is the female; both contain THC. “In marijuana, it’s classified as 3% THC or higher; in hemp, it’s usually less than 1%,” says Costa. That means you can’t get high from hemp. “It doesn't do any good to pull it up and smoke it; it’s like smoking rope,” say Oscar Gonzales an employee at the Hemp Shack in Fresno. He works with Hemp and its products every day. He says the plant has numerous environmental and health benefits. Hemp is used to make paper, clothing, twines, lotions and oils.

The bill to legalize hemp grows has passed several committees and the Senate. The Kings County Farm Bureau is listening but says there is a lot more to learn. “We haven't been presented with that many facts, pros or cons,” says Costa.

The Hemp Bill also known as Senate Bill 676 was unanimously approved by the agriculture advisory committee earlier this month. It’s passed numerous committees and the Senate. It will be on the Governor’s desk in September; Governor Jerry Brown is expected to sign it.

Christina Lusby reporting.