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CubicFarm Systems Announces Its First Operational Growing Machine For Hemp and Cannabis
The ZenCube project leverages CubicFarms' patented, undulating-path growing technology to allow hemp and cannabis growers to cultivate significant amounts of product in a smaller footprint by doing so in a completely climate-controlled environment
October 28, 2019
License Agreement with Zenabis to Expand Sales of CubicFarms Systems in New Vertical
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 28, 2019,/ CubicFarm� Systems Corp. (TSXV:CUB) ("CubicFarms" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that ZenCube, its vertical-farming machine for growing hemp and cannabis, is fully operational at a showcase and R&D facility in Langley, Canada.
The ZenCube project leverages CubicFarms' patented, undulating-path growing technology to allow hemp and cannabis growers to cultivate significant amounts of product in a smaller footprint by doing so in a completely climate-controlled environment. The ZenCube helps to address challenges faced by traditional growing methods, by providing a solution that requires less space, labour, water and energy, and is expected to result in a more consistent, higher quality product for farmers and end-users alike.
CubicFarms has developed a pipeline of sales opportunities for its ZenCube-branded growing machines that is expected to be augmented by an exclusive License Agreement signed with Zenabis Ltd. ("Zenabis"), a subsidiary of Zenabis Global, a leading Canadian licensed cannabis cultivator of medical and recreational cannabis, and propagator and cultivator of floral and vegetable products. Under terms of the agreement, Zenabis shall fulfill a minimum sales threshold of 150 ZenCube machines by year 2024 to maintain its exclusive license to operate, sell and sublicense ZenCube machines globally.
The License Agreement supersedes the Joint Venture Agreement between CubicFarms and Zenabis, announced in a Bevo Agro press release dated October 9, 2018. Bevo Agro now is Zenabis Global.
CubicFarms and Zenabis are conducting ongoing R&D on crop growth and quality at the Zenabis-owned-and-licensed Langley facility.
Dave Dinesen, Chief Executive Officer of CubicFarms, commented: "CubicFarms is excited to bring online its first growing machine for the purposes of facilitating yet another vertical in the hemp and cannabis space, and to help farmers grow more produce reliably, 12 months a year, wherever they are on earth. CubicFarms has received numerous enquiries to utilize our technology in this space and we are thrilled to serve this market, in addition to our other verticals, namely fresh produce, animal feed and nutraceuticals."
Leo Benne, Chief Growing Officer of Zenabis, added: "The Zenabis and CubicFarms partnership on the ZenCube project is a culmination of our joint vision of bringing a robust and reliable solution to the global hemp and cannabis market, to ensure we meet consistency and quality in our crop yields."
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
About CubicFarm� Systems Corp.
CubicFarm� Systems Corp. ("CubicFarms") is an ag-tech company commercializing large scale, vertical farming solutions for global industrial markets. Founded in 2015, the Company's mission is to provide industries around the world with efficient growing systems capable of producing predictable crop yields. CubicFarms offers turnkey, commercial scale, hydroponic, automated vertical farm growing systems that can grow predictably and sustainably for 12 months of the year virtually anywhere on earth. CubicFarms enables its customers in the fresh produce, animal feed, nutraceutical, and hemp/cannabis industries to grow locally and to provide their markets with safe, sustainable, secure and fresh ingredients that are consistent in colour, size, taste, nutrition and allows for a longer shelf life. Further support and value is provided to customers through the Company's patent-pending germination technology and proprietary auto harvesting and processing methods.
Using its unique, undulating growing system, the Company addresses the main challenges within the indoor farming industry by significantly reducing the need for physical labour and energy, and maximizing yield per cubic foot. The Company has sold and installed systems in Canada and the US, and is currently negotiating with a global pipeline of prospective customers. It also operates one wholly owned facility in Pitt Meadows, British Columbia, and sells its produce in the province to retail and wholesale customers under the brand name Thriiv Local Garden".
Information contact
Kimberly Lim
kimberly@cubicfarms.com
Phone: +1-236-858-6491
www.cubicfarms.com
Cautionary statement on forward-looking information
Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including, without limitation, statements with respect to the ZenCube is expected to result in a more consistent, higher quality product for farmers and end-users alike; and CubicFarms' sales pipeline is expected to be augmented by the License Agreement. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of CubicFarm Systems Corp., or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict", and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events, or results "may", "could", "would", "might", or "will" be taken, occur, or be achieved.
These statements reflect the company's current expectations regarding future events, performance, and results and speak only as of the date of this news release. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except as required by securities disclosure laws and regulations applicable to the company, the company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if the company's expectations regarding future events, performance, or results change.
SOURCE: CubicFarm Systems Corp
Hemp Fibre-Reinforced Plastic, Hemp Protein Powder And Hemp Face Cream Are “Hemp Products of the Year 2019”
nova-Institut GmbH (www.nova-institute.eu)
Hürth, 6 June 2019
With more than 410 participants from 49 countries and a sold-out exhibition, the conference has broken all records and is now by far the world's largest event for the industrial use of hemp
For the second time, the innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year” has been granted to the young, innovative hemp industry for finding suitable applications and markets for industrial hemp-based products.
After a 10-minute presentation from each of the nominated companies, the three award winners were chosen by the expert audience at the “16th EIHA Hemp Conference”, 5 – 6 June 2019 in Cologne, Germany (www.eiha-conference.org). The six nominees were previously selected by a jury from a total of 30 submissions.
Visuals, German version and PDF file available at http://nova-institute.eu/press/?id=125
With more than 410 participants from 49 countries and a sold-out exhibition, the conference has broken all records and is now by far the world’s largest event for the industrial use of hemp. Practically all companies active worldwide in the field of hemp fibres and shives, hemp seeds and oil and cannabidiol (CBD) meet once a year in Cologne to discuss the latest developments, to strengthen business relationships and create new ones.
The demand for hemp products, especially food, cosmetics and CBD, is growing worldwide. In Europe, a record area of 50,000 ha will be cultivated this year. In Canada the goal is to reach a turnover of 1 billion Canadian dollars by the year 2023 and in the USA Kentucky is entering hemp cultivation with big plans: “Make Hemp Great Again”. As for China, a large hemp textile industry is currently emerging.
Continuous innovation is one of the most important drivers of the hemp industry. Therefore, the innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year 2019” plays a very special role. This year, the innovation award was sponsored by HempFlax, the leading hemp company from the Netherlands, and awarded together with the nova-Institute. Michael Carus, managing director of the nova-Institute, was enthusiastic: “This year’s winners not only convince hemp enthusiasts, they also illustrate the broad spectrum of the hemp plant: Hemp fibre-reinforced plastic for trolleys and lightweight construction, high-quality hemp protein in previously unmatched purity and a face cream that combines the advantages of hemp oil and CBD for facial care”.
The winners in detail:
1st place: Trifilon AB (SE) – Trifilon BioLite Trolley Case made of PP Hemp Fibre
With BioLite, Trifilon offers a green alternative to plastics. BioLite is a polypropylene reinforced with 30% hemp fibres. Hemp is one of the strongest natural fibres in the world, which makes BioLite products strong, light and durable. The use of hemp fibres in BioLite optimises the material properties for many applications – the high-quality trolley case is just one example. This technology gives manufacturers the opportunity to make sensible use of renewable raw materials, and an excellent one is hemp. The new material is suitable for lightweight automotive construction and consumer goods.
www.trifilon.com
2nd place: BAFA Neu GmbH (DE): Absolute HempProtein
The innovative hemp protein powder contains over 70% complete protein. It has a nutty taste and white colour. It has a creamy texture, is mixable with liquids and it doesn’t contain insoluble fibre fractions. The hemp protein powder is naturally white which ensures great bright colours in shakes when mixed with fresh fruit such as strawberries, raspberries or mango. This product is 100% natural and is also available in a certified organic version. Hemp protein powder is an ideal protein supplement for athletic vegetarians and vegans. It is allergen free and a complete protein.
www.bafa-gmbh.de
3rd place: Hemptouch d.o.o. (SI): Hemptouch Balancing Face Cream
Hemptouch Balancing Face Cream is a first ever skin care product formulated with a unique trilogy of industrial hemp extracts such as hemp hydrolate, Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp seed oil. This innovative face cream combats blemished and acne-prone skin, one of the biggest segments in skin care industry. It brings a brand-new approach to the fight against acne and oily skin, proving that hemp is a powerful alternative to over the counter medicine. Hemp hydrolate has antimicrobial properties, visibly tightens pores and smooths skin texture. CBD extract helps to control excess oil production which prevents blemishes and purifies acne-prone skin. Hemp seed oil with its nurturing omega acids restores healthy-looking radiance. This cream is dermatologically tested, proven to reduce the secretion of sebum.
www.hemptouch.com
The nova-Institute would like to acknowledge HempFlax (NL) for sponsoring the renowned innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year”. Agropro (LT), GenCanna Global (US), MH medical hemp (DE) and Hempro (DE) have been supporting the conference as Gold Sponsors, Fundación CANNA (ES) and Gilson International B.V. Germany (DE) as Silver Sponsors and Canah International (RO) as Bronze Sponsor. BAFA Neu (DE) sponsored the hemp beer.
Source: nova-Institut GmbH, press release, 2019-06-06.
Supplier
DE/EN): Six Candidates Nominated For The Innovation Award “Hemp Product of The Year 2019”
27.05.2019
For the second time, the innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year” will be granted to the young, innovative hemp industry for finding suitable applications and markets for industrial hemp-based products.
Focus of the award is on new developments within these business areas. The winners will be elected at the “16th EIHA Hemp Conference”, 5 - 6 June 2019 in Cologne, Germany (http://www.eiha-conference.org). The conference is the oldest and largest conference on industrial hemp worldwide. Six new materials and products out of 30 applications have been nominated by a jury. After a short presentation of the six candidates, the three winners will be elected by the participants of the conference and honoured with the innovation award, sponsored by HempFlax from The Netherlands.
What to expect – the “Top 6” candidates in detail:
Academy of Design and Crafts Münster (DE): Light Sculptures Monas
The innovative design light sculptures are made of hemp cellulose. For the production of the handmade paper, the artists used hemp cellulose (Cannabis sativa) and potato flour. The round and damp handmade paper sheets dry directly on the wire frame where it is attached. As the damp fibres links together in a natural way, usage of additional glue is not necessary. To improve the stability, certain functional characteristics and for paper finishing, paper pulp is mixed with environmentally friendly wall paper paste. Later the mixture and strips of paper are applied in layers. After the drying process, the wire frame is pressed together and is removed. http://www.akademie-gestaltung.de
BAFA Neu GmbH (DE): Absolute HempProtein
The innovative hemp protein powder contains over 70% complete protein. It has a nutty taste and white colour. It has a creamy texture, is mixable with liquids and it doesn’t contain insoluble fibre fractions. The hemp protein powder is naturally white which ensures great bright colours in shakes when mixed with fresh fruit such as strawberries, raspberries or mango. This product is 100% natural and is also available in a certified organic version. Hemp protein powder is an ideal protein supplement for athletic vegetarians and vegans. It is allergen free and a complete protein. http://www.bafa-gmbh.de
hanfwerk Feinkostmanufaktur UG / haftungsbeschränkt (DE): Hanfling – Hanfling Bombay – Hanfling Chorizo
The Hanfling is an organic, vegan friendly product in three different tastes: Hanfling Nature, Hanfling Bombay and Hanfling Chorizo. These can be eaten raw, but also fried, grilled or toasted, used as a patty for a burger or in a caper sauce (“Königsberger Hanfling”). This product needs to be refrigerated with an expiry date of 6 months. hanfwerk uses hemp seeds as the main ingredient as well as self-made hemp-tofu. The product is available in around 100 organic supermarkets in Germany. http://www.hanfwerk.de
Hempster HB (SE): Raw Vegan Shake
Raw Vegan Shake is a fresh, yummy, organic hemp drink designed to optimize the nutritional benefit of hemp seeds. It is locally produced and comes in four flavours: Chocolate, Chai Latte, Cocos and Vanilla Malt. This shake is ideal for breakfast, as a nourishing snack or as an energy drink and it contains high-quality and valuable essential nutrients. Through a unique production method, Hempster has created a product which ticks all the boxes and gives the customer a pleasant, satisfying drinking experience. http://www.hempster.se
Hemptouch d.o.o. (SI): Hemptouch Balancing Face Cream
Hemptouch Balancing Face Cream is a first ever skin care product formulated with a unique trilogy of industrial hemp extracts such as hemp hydrolate, Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp seed oil. This innovative face cream combats blemished and acne-prone skin, one of the biggest segments in skin care industry. It brings a brand-new approach to the fight against acne and oily skin, proving that hemp is a powerful alternative to over the counter medicine. Hemp hydrolate has antimicrobial properties, visibly tightens pores and smooths skin texture. CBD extract helps to control excess oil production which prevents blemishes and purifies acne-prone skin. Hemp seed oil with its nurturing omega acids restores healthy-looking radiance. This cream is dermatologically tested, proven to reduce the secretion of sebum. http://www.hemptouch.com
Trifilon AB (SE): Trifilon BioLite – Trolley Case made of PP Hemp Fibre
Trifilon offers with BioLite a green alternative to plastics. BioLite is a polypropylene that is reinforced with 30% hemp fibres. Hemp makes for some of the world’s strongest natural fibres, the products made with BioLite are strong, light and durable. BioLite’s hemp fibres enhance and improve material properties for many applications – the high quality trolley case is just one example. This technology gives manufacturers a way to meaningfully begin working with renewable feedstocks and an excellent one is hemp. http://www.trifilon.com
More than 350 participants from 40 countries are expected to attend the “16th EIHA Hemp Conference”, 5 - 6 June 2019 in Cologne, Germany, the oldest and largest conference on industrial hemp worldwide. The exhibition taking place during the conference includes 27 exhibition stands and is already fully booked.
All information, registration and the conference programme are available at http://www.eiha-conference.org
The nova-Institute would like to acknowledge HempFlax (NL) for sponsoring the renowned innovation award “Hemp Product of the Year”. Agropro (LT), GenCanna Global (US), MH medical hemp (DE) and Hempro (DE) are supporting the conference as Gold Sponsors, Fundación CANNA (ES) and Gilson International B.V. Germany (DE) as Silver Sponsors and Canah International (RO) as Bronze Sponsor. BaFa Neu (DE) is sponsor of the hemp beer.
16th EIHA Hemp Conference, 5–6 June 2019, Maternushaus, Cologne, Germany
Hemp Fibres & Shives for Construction, Biocomposites & Paper
16th EIHA Hemp Conference
++ 200 registered participants from 31 countries - 400 participants and 30 exhibitors expected ++
Industrial hemp is more than hemp food and CBD. Hemp fibres and shives are in demand as raw materials for the construction industry, biocomposites and special papers. Leading international experts present, share and discuss the latest developments at the oldest and largest industrial hemp conference in the world. Presentations will show a broad range of hempcrete applications, energy storage system from hemp materials, hemp fibre plastic granulates for many more applications such as cases and toys and high quality hemp paper for business and beyond.
Candice Meskin, Quintessential Tips (UK):
Hemp Paper for Business and Beyond
Abstract
Steve Allin, International Hemp Building Association (IR):
The Broad Range of Hempcrete Applications Worldwide
Abstract
Carl Martel, Advanced Hemp Technologies (CA):
Building an Integrated Energy Storage from Hemp Materials
Abstract
Jeremiah Dutton, Trifilon (SE):
Trifilon Biocomposites – Advancing Sustainability & Performance with Hemp Fibres
Final programme you will find here.
Book your adverstisement in the conference journal now!
Increase the awareness of your company and place an ad in the conference journal. It reaches thousands of industrial hemp specific recipients in printed and electronic form!
One page (DIN A 4, 3mm bleed) for 1,000 EUR (excl. 19% VAT) and half a page for 500 EUR (excl. 19% VAT) only.
Deadline for submission: 12:00h MEZ, 22 May 2019
Innovation award "Hemp Product of the Year"
For the 2nd time, the Innovation award "Hemp Product of the Year" 2019 will be granted to the young, innovative industrial hemp industry for finding suitable applications and markets for industrial hemp based products. Many thanks to HempFlax for supporting the Innovation Award! All six nominated products will be published soon.
Sponsoring opportunities
All sponsoring opportunities are available for download here.
Call for posters
Want to present a poster? Submit your application here.
About the conference
Specialists from all over the world will meet in order to exchange information regarding the latest developments in hemp applications for fibres, shivs, seeds and oil as well as cannabinoids. Applications are biocomposites in automotive and construction as well as textiles, food, food supplements and pharmaceuticals. We are expecting again 400 international participants from more than 40 countries.
Looking forward to welcoming you at the biggest event on industrial hemp ever!
Your nova conference team
Visions And Global Hemp Industry & Country Reports, 16th EIHA Hemp Conference
16th EIHA Hemp Conference, 5–6 June 2019, Maternushaus, Cologne, Germany
++ Almost 140 registered participants from 26 countries - 400 participants expected ++ 30 exhibitors expected
16th EIHA Hemp Conference, 5–6 June 2019,
Maternushaus, Cologne, Germany
++ Almost 140 registered participants from 26 countries - 400 participants expected ++ 30 exhibitors expected ++
Industrial hemp is becoming a big business worldwide, whether CBD, hemp food or building materials. At the oldest and largest industrial hemp conference in the world, countries such as Australia, Canada, Thailand, India, Greece, Romania, The Netherlands and Great Britain will present their growth scenarios and visions. Don't miss the pioneers of a new billion-dollar industry!
Visions and Global Hemp Industry
Michael Carus (DE)
nova-Institut and member of the EIHA advisory board
Welcome and Introduction to the Conference
Lorenza Romanese (BE)
Managing Director of EIHA: Lobbying Actions in Brussels on Hemp Food, CBD and CAP Reform – an Opportunity for the Hemp Sector
Catherine Wilson (UK)
CannaWellness and EIHA board member: The Future of Hemp
Steve Bevan (US)
GenCanna: Global Hemp Economics
Paul Benhaim (AU)
Elixinol Global: Hemp and Cannabis in a Modern and Changing World
Abstract
Kehrt Reyher (PL / US)
HempToday: Powering the Industry with Modern Media Tools
Abstract
Country Reports
Mark Reinders (NL)
HempFlax and president of EIHA: Update on EIHA and the European Hemp Industry
Ted Haney (CA)
Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance: The Canadian Hemp Industry – A Billion Dollar Blueprint
Abstract
Thiprada Poonsawat (TH)
Kasetsart University: Hemp in Thailand – Current Status and the Coming of Medical Hemp
Abstract
Rohit Sharma (IN)
Indian Industrial Hemp Association: Indian Hemp Techno Commercial & Market Update
Michalis Theodoropoulos (GR)
KANNABIO Hemp Cooperative: Cooperativism in the Hemp Industry – Prospects and Challenges
Final programme you will find here.
Innovation award "Hemp Product of the Year"
For the 2nd time, the Innovation award "Hemp Product of the Year" 2019 will be granted to the young, innovative industrial hemp industry for finding suitable applications and markets for industrial hemp based products. Many thanks to HempFlax for supporting the Innovation Award! All six nominated products will be published soon.
Sponsoring and exhibition opportunities
All sponsoring opportunities are available for download here.
The fee for a booth (6 m2) is 650 EUR (excl. 19% VAT). We provide you with a table, tablecloths, a pin board, a chair and a power connection. You are welcome to use your own booth system. After booking your booth please submit Mr. Dominik Vogt a printable logo and a company profile.
Call for posters
Want to present a poster? Submit your application here.
About the conference
Specialists from all over the world will meet in order to exchange information regarding the latest developments in hemp applications for fibres, shivs, seeds and oil as well as cannabinoids. Applications are biocomposites in automotive and construction as well as textiles, food, food supplements and pharmaceuticals. We are expecting again 400 international participants from more than 40 countries.
Looking forward to welcoming you at the biggest event on industrial hemp ever!
Your nova conference team
Hemp Farming Coming To Alabama But Still Months Away
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries will work with the federal government, the governor’s office, law enforcement and others in developing a plan to authorize hemp farming and processing in the wake of the decision by Congress.
December 17, 2018
A display about products made from hemp that was shown at the Alabama State House in 2016 when lawmakers passed a bill authorizing research on growing hemp for industrial uses. (Mike Cason | mcason@al.com)
Alabamians should be able to grow and process hemp as an agricultural commodity because of the farm bill approved by Congress last week, but there are still governmental hurdles ahead before they can get started.
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries will work with the federal government, the governor’s office, law enforcement and others in developing a plan to authorize hemp farming and processing in the wake of the decision by Congress.
Agriculture Commissioner John McMillan said it will take months to get the regulatory framework approved but said there’s strong interest and potential for hemp as a cash crop.
“Without a doubt this opens the door for I think great potential for our producers in Alabama to add another cash crop to their options,” McMillan said. The commissioner said hemp farming on a significant scale probably can’t happen in Alabama before the 2020 growing season.
On Dec. 12, Congress passed the 2018 Agriculture and Nutrition Act, usually called the farm bill. The law, which still awaited President Trump’s signature on Monday, changes the legal status of hemp from a controlled substance to an agricultural commodity.
Hemp is related to the marijuana plant. But hemp contains far smaller amounts of THC, the intoxicating substance in marijuana, and is valued for the use of its fiber. Hemp stalks and hemp seeds are used to make a wide array of products, including fabric, fiber board, carpeting, insulation, livestock feed and automobile components such as door panels and insulation.
McMillan said the reclassification of hemp was widely expected in the agriculture community, partly because Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell supported the change because of the industry’s potential in his home state of Kentucky.
The commissioner expects the federal government to require states to submit a regulatory plan that passes muster with law enforcement.
“Even though the farm bill makes it a commodity, it’s still different from these other commodities because of the illegal potential,” McMillan said. “So, we anticipate for sure that the Board of Agriculture is going to require us to have the known locations where it’s being grown, testing procedures to be sure it’s legal, and then procedures on how it will be disposed of if the tests determine it’s not legal.”
Federal law had previously allowed states to authorize research on hemp farming and the Alabama Legislature passed a bill to do so in 2016. McMillan said no hemp is being grown in Alabama as part of such a research project because of the long process of getting regulations approved by the federal government. But he said that process is finished and should be applicable to creating a regulatory framework for hemp production under the new authorization in the farm bill.
McMillan said he has recommended to the staff of Gov. Kay Ivey that the governor put together a working group or task force to make sure Agriculture & Industries, law enforcement and other agencies and groups have a part in crafting a uniform state plan.
Hemp is also a source for cannabidiol, a substance some people take to as a treatment for physical ailments. Cannabidiol can also be derived from marijuana and the Alabama Legislature has carved out limited exceptions to the law against marijuana possession for the use of cannabidiol.
Last week, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall put out an updated public notice on the legal status of cannabidiol in the wake of the farm bill and the change in the designation of hemp by Congress.
McMillan said he expects a request to the Legislature for additional funding and resources to administer a hemp program.
McMillan is completing his second term as agriculture commissioner and will take office as state treasurer in January. McMillan said incoming Commissioner Rick Pate will be up to speed on the hemp program and said he does not expect the changeover to delay the process.
US (NM): Cannabis Provider Unveils 8.7 Million sq.ft. Facility
Ultra Health acquired 200 acres of farmland in Otero County, New Mexico to support the state’s growing medical cannabis program. At over 8.7 million square feet, the campus will be the largest cannabis cultivation facility in North America.
The new cultivation site also anticipates the legalization of cannabis for social use and large-scale hemp production in New Mexico. The facility will have the capacity to accommodate other New Mexico licensed producers and adjust to market and regulatory demands.
Ultra Health Tularosa will employ 100 local residents and house the nation’s most diverse cannabis cultivation operation. The new site will include 20 acres of indoor cultivation in 20 air-supported, wind-assisted style greenhouses, 80 acres of outdoor cannabis fields, 100 acres of outdoor hemp fields, and 120,000 square feet of production buildings.
"Two-hundred acres represents the largest cannabis grow in North America that I know of," said Hunter Wilson, Community Builder at Growers Network, a private community for cannabis professionals. "The next largest clocks in at 55 acres, not even close. From the looks of it, Ultra Health isn’t putting all their eggs in one basket. They're future-proofing their site for a diverse consumer base in New Mexico, and potentially the U.S."
The campus will blend modern agribusiness and green technologies including solar, wind and rainwater harvesting. In addition, the sustainable site will be supplemented with secured water rights of 1,000 acre-feet of water, or the equivalent of 325.9 million gallons of water per year. Addressing water requirements is a requisite to any long-term successful cultivation effort.
“Ultra Health Tularosa was conceived to solve a challenge and to seize an opportunity,” said Duke Rodriguez, CEO, and President of Ultra Health. “This new facility will ensure the commitment of continuing to produce and deliver the highest quality, most affordable and convenient cannabis in the State. The opportunity exists to have a ready solution to address the increasing need as we move forward to the social use of cannabis by adults and the commercial production of hemp.”
Residents and officials in Otero County highly anticipate and are supportive of the opening of Ultra Health Tularosa.
“Your company has thoughtfully considered the issues that we would be concerned about–security, water supply, the impact on neighboring properties,” The Board of County Commissions of Otero County wrote to Ultra Health in a signed letter. “Ultra Health appears to us to be a responsible, concerned corporate citizen. Your company will bring much-needed jobs and economic development to our county and we offer our support to your project.”
For more information:
Ultra Health
ultrahealth.com
2018
The Age Of Hemp: Global Advanced Industrial Applications
The Age Of Hemp: Global Advanced Industrial Applications
Giadha De Carcer is Founder/CEO of New Frontier Data, an independent, tech-driven analytics company specializing in global cannabis markets.
Getty
Hemp, the non-psychoactive variety of the cannabis sativa plant, is already being integrated into several mature markets such as food, textiles, construction, personal care and nutraceuticals. This relatively quiet cannabis relative is emerging as a potential commodity ripe to not only impact, but possibly revolutionize, tech-driven markets and economies around the world.
In 2014, I founded New Frontier Data, an analytics and business intelligence reporting group dedicated to the global cannabis industry, after more than 20 years in finance, industry analytics, intelligence reporting and emerging markets. As such, I have had the privilege of following hemp’s emergence and evolution. Half a decade later, this robust, environmentally friendly, low -cost-to-produce plant has become one of the most diversely applied and globally significant natural resources in the world. Here is a look at its applications across several mature industries:
Automotive
In 2013, BMW announced its newest electric car, the i3. Using low-weight hemp in its interior, the i3 weighs 800 pounds less than its market competitors. The Kestrel, created by Canadian Motive Industries, uses polymer resin-infused hemp stalks to replace fiberglass in the body of the vehicle. From this replacement, consumers can expect a dramatic reduction in weight, improved efficiency and the appeal of an ecologically sustainable vehicle.
Supercapacitors
The challenge to find lighter and longer-lasting energy storage devices (e.g., batteries) can be found in almost every sector. Hemp could prove to revolutionize battery life by aiding in the development of faster, smaller and cheaper supercapacitors. A supercapacitor is an energy storage device that can discharge powerful infusions of energy, needed only in small bursts. Such powerful discharges are used in braking systems of electric vehicles, the powering on of computers and new technologies such as rapid phone charging or cordless tools.
The current top-performing supercapacitors use graphene. However, in 2004, Dr. David Mitlin of Clarkson University and researchers at the National Institute for Nanotechnology (NINT), discovered that hemp-based supercapacitors outperformed graphene supercapacitors in energy storage by nearly 200%.
The downsides of graphene are its dwindling sources and costly process to mine and import from rural areas in China and India. Hemp, however, can be grown in almost any terrain or country, and produces hemp bast, the key material used to replace graphene, as a waste byproduct of hemp processing. According to Mitlin’s research, hemp processing is 1,000 times cheaper than graphene processing.
Soil Regeneration
Hemp has the ability to mitigate the toxin transfer from contaminated soil into food products. This process uses phytoremediation, an organic process where toxins are absorbed by plant roots and then stored in the cellulose for disposal. Hemp phytoremediation became more well-known after the Chernobyl disaster for its use in helping grow crops that are safe for consumption.
Challenges
Hemp’s greatest obstacle is its association with psychoactive cannabis, despite the important distinction that hemp contains only nominal amounts (no more than 0.3%) of the psychoactive ingredient, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Although the U.S. is the largest importer of hemp products according to the Hemp Business Journal (a New Frontier Data subsidiary), hemp itself has struggled to gain social acceptance in the country and elsewhere. For instance, current U.S. legislation only permits universities and states performing agricultural or academic research to cultivate hemp. However, the 2018 Farm Bill currently in Congress would grant hemp full legalization across the nation. Passage of this bill would be a key step in promoting public acceptance in the U.S. and elsewhere, allowing the country to participate in the rapidly growing global hemp market.
Africa And China: The Rise Of Global Hemp Markets
Hemp is legally cultivated in countries around the world, and China is leading the way. As detailed in a High Times article, China produces approximately 44,000 tons annually, almost 40% of the world’s total. According to that same article, Chile is South America’s largest producer, and France is Europe’s most proliferate producer.
China is also positioning itself to become the world’s leading semiconductor and microchip producer. Under an initiative called Made in China 2025, the country announced its intention to dominate technologies such as industrial robots and software, electromobility and more.
The way I see it, the marriage of China’s position as the world’s supplier of hemp -- and its burgeoning semiconductor industry -- could be the key to China’s hegemony over the microchip industry. Semiconductors are traditionally made using silicon. Graphene semiconductors, however, could one day lead to computers that are a thousand times faster, consume significantly less power and are smaller than silicon semiconductors used in computer transistors. In application, graphene’s dwindling supply and costly manufacturing issues would still exist. Putting this all together, Mitlin’s research has sparked interest in the potential for hemp to create the next-generation semiconductor.
Approximately 65% of sub-Saharan Africa’s agricultural land is degraded, according to data collected in 2015, resulting in food insecurity and a declining economy in a region where the agricultural industry employs more than half of the total labor force. Hemp’s soil nutrient replenishing properties could be the key to reviving crop production, providing a novel food source (hemp seeds) and boosting the agro-based economies of South Africa and other hemp-cultivating sub-Saharan countries.
The U.S. hemp-derived CBD market alone is projected to reach $450 million by 2020, and China's cannabis market could grow to 100 billion yuan by 2022 (approximately $14.5 billion). Hemp is already interwoven into the futures of the automotive, construction, energy, environmental mediation and technology industries. Once fully utilized and legal, this plant could impact the global economic positionings of North America, China and Africa.
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Giadha De Carcer is Founder/CEO of New Frontier Data, an independent, tech-driven analytics company specializing in global cannabis markets.
Wisconsin, Industrial Hemp - Legislatively Speaking
Wisconsin, Industrial Hemp - Legislatively Speaking
APRIL 28, 2018
By Senator, Lena C. Taylor
A Rural and Urban Crop
Lena C. Taylor
Last fall, Governor Walker signed SB 119 into law after it passed unanimously in the assembly and senate. The bill allows for the growing of industrial hemp, with proper licensing, in the state of Wisconsin after it had been outlawed for the last 60 years. This represents an exciting development for our state and one that Milwaukee communities, in particular, must capitalize on.
Hemp could be a catalyst in further expanding our state’s already impressive urban agriculture output. Milwaukee has the highest number of community gardens, urban farms, and farmers’ markets per person in the country. However, the implementation of hemp production can further improve this vibrant scene, bringing along exciting economic opportunities as well as agricultural and environmental benefits. If you’re not already involved in the urban agriculture scene, now is a great time to get started.
Why now? Well for starters, the legalization of hemp provides licensed farmers with a diverse and useful crop with a high market value. Every part of the plant can be used for some type of product, whether it be for food, fuel, fiber or lotion. It is also an incredibly efficient crop, generating 250 percent more fiber than cotton and six times more fiber than flax with the same land area.
Beyond its market value, it can be used as a cover crop to improve the health of the soil and thus the output of other crops. Additionally, hemp does not require significant water usage, helping to keep input costs relatively low for farmers. Both of these benefits are particularly important for urban farming, as their small size relies on productivity through crop rotation and minimizing water input. By planting hemp, urban farmers can generate more profit while simultaneously improving the quality of their already stellar produce.
Just because you do not have prior experience working on a farm does not mean you should shy away from engaging in urban farming and hemp production. There are already a lot of agriculture centers in Milwaukee where experienced urban farmers can show you the basics, and develop your farming skills. If you have the time and dedication, urban farming can be a viable and profitable career. It can also be a side-time hobby filled with economic and social benefits. Either way, it is a growing industry with intriguing opportunities and a passionate Milwaukee community ready to show you the way.
Urban agriculture is helping bring communities closer, increase access to food, and provide compelling business opportunities. With the legalization of hemp, these positive developments are just getting started. The time is now to make a big leap in improving Milwaukee, and urban farming is a great place for you to start.
For more information about an Industrial Hemp License:https://datcp.wi.gov/Page/Programs_Services/IndustrialHemp.aspx