Hemp fiber production continues to build momentum, but it may be several years before demand drives scaled production on-farm.  The current production and processing that emerged this year is the next iteration of US hemp growing and processing, after Sunstrand closed its doors last year. 

Current production is primarily oriented towards animal bedding markets, which is an established market with reliable demand.  Since hurd comprises the bulk of the hemp stalk, this is a practical approach to keeping material moving and generating cash flow.  Bast fibers are being stored after decortication.  These early operators are doing critical foundational work for establishing a fiber hemp market segment.

With proper storage, baling and storing bast fiber seems a sound approach to current markets, but demand for bast fiber will need to materialize to drive the segment.  Monetizing multiple product streams is important for operators to succeed with…