SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Agriculture released final harvest numbers from the 2020 hemp growing season. Hemp farmers reported 2,734 acres planted, with 1,278,000 pounds of flower, 39,000 pounds of seed, 8,500 pounds of grain and 48,000 pounds of fiber harvested. In the last year 106 acres were harvested in greenhouses across Illinois.
“The hemp industry, just like many others was hit by the pandemic,” said IDOA Division of Cannabis Manager David Lakeman. “Workforce safety challenges, pandemic-related impacts on the market, and some initial issues with processing all contributed to a more difficult year for the hemp industry. Despite these challenges, the Illinois hemp industry continued to demonstrate resilience and strength. IDOA remains committed to being a good partner to the industry, and we look forward to the 2021 growing season.”
