By Scout Nelson
Industrial hemp production in North Dakota continued to grow in 2024, according to new data released by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).
“Industrial hemp grown in open areas in North Dakota in 2024 totaled 850 acres, up 15% from 2023,” stated the USDA. This growth in acreage reflects a renewed interest in hemp as a viable crop option across the state.
Of the total hemp grown outdoors, 760 acres were harvested, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. This suggests not only increased planting but also consistent crop performance and a stable harvest rate.
Protected hemp production—grown in greenhouses or similar covered environments—also saws a major boost. The total area of industrial hemp grown under protection in 2024 was 11,326 square feet, compared to just 2,399 square feet in 2023. This jump demonstrates rising interest in controlled-environmental hemp farming, which allows for greater control overgrowth conditions and crop quality.
The growth in both field and protected hemp acreage indicates a healthy trend for hemp in North Dakota. The increased production may be driven by broader interest in hemp's commercial potential, including fibres, seeds, oils, and CBD-related products.
With changing regulations and increasing demand, industrial hemp continues to be a crop of interest for producers and researchers alike. The USDA’s yearly data provides a reliable snapshot of how the industry is progressing in the state.
Overall, 2024 shows positive momentum for North Dakota’s hemp industry, both in traditional open-field settings and newer protected growing environments.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-jessicahyde
Categories: North Dakota, General