Cross pollination of disparate hemp cultivars has been a growing concern for the budding hemp industry.  Floral producers growing for cannabinoids or premium raw flower in 2019/2020 were especially threatened by the significant uptick of pollen in the air in key production regions.  Industrial hemp pollen can drastically alter cannabinoid and terpene profiles.

Since 2019/2020, hemp production has consolidated to some extent, but there is no established pattern.  Cross-pollination will persist as a serious economic threat to hemp growers and contracted buyers.  In some cases, cross-pollination is believed to increase THC levels, potentially compromising an entire crop.

Other industries, like commercial carrot production has evolved to accommodate the potential for cross pollination.  This works because of the highly consolidated and vertically integrated carrot segment,…