SIU to Host Industrial Hemp Growing Event on February 25

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Southern Illinois University Carbondale is hosting an Industrial Hemp Farmer Informational Event on February 25th. The event will feature industry leaders and experts providing the latest information on growing industrial hemp for grain and fiber, including sessions on planting, harvesting, weed management, soil health, and resources and developments in the industrial hemp industry.

Why it matters

As industrial hemp continues to grow as a viable agricultural crop, this event provides an important opportunity for farmers and interested parties to learn from experts and explore the potential of industrial hemp cultivation in the region.

The details

The event will cover a comprehensive program of topics related to industrial hemp farming, including planting and harvesting techniques, offtake agreements, weed management, soil health, and insights on low-labor and low-input growing methods. Experts will also discuss resources and recent industry developments, such as the inclusion of industrial hemp varieties in crop insurance and the material designation for the crop.

• The Industrial Hemp Farmer Informational Event is scheduled for 6 p.m. on February 25, 2026.
• The event will run from 6:15 p.m. to 8 p.m., with an additional hour afterward reserved for questions and answers.

What’s next

The event is free to attend, but participants are asked to pre-register online.