PIERRE, S.D. (DRG News) – Supporters of industrial hemp spent time together in Pierre Monday discussing how to get production of the crop legalized in South Dakota, as well as the various logistics associated with growing, harvesting and processing it.

SecurCrop vice president Randy Stratton says there are already hemp processing manufacturers making the equipment in the state.

He says South Dakota farmers wanting to add industrial hemp into their crop rotation may be able to use some of the equipment they already own.

Stratton says hemp would provide another valued added agriculture option for South Dakota farmers.

He says industrial hemp grown for grain is a good source of protein.

Stratton says whether or not industrial hemp gets legalized in South Dakota, the state is going to have to know how to handle the crop.

Currently, South Dakota is one of three states where growing and processing industrial hemp isn’t legal.

Per the 2018 Farm Bill, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is drafting the regulatory framework for hemp. with the goal of having regulations in effect this fall to accommodate the 2020 planting season.