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Farmers can now legally grow hemp in Arizona

Posted at 7:46 AM, Jun 03, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-03 10:46:54-04

Starting Saturday, farmers can legally grow hemp in Arizona.

The Arizona Hemp Industries Association says those wanting to cash-in on the crop are still waiting for their state-issued licenses. But once they receive them, you'll start seeing some changes across the Valley.

"They're going to send us our license in the mail as soon as everything clears. Finger print cards, etc.," George Buckler, one of about 200 people who applied for a license, said.

Buckler and former GOP Chairman Randy Pullen sit on the board for the Arizona Hemp Industries Association.

"It's a gold rush," Pullen said.

Pullen says you can make about $600 per acre growing hemp.

"Versus making anywhere from $0 to $100 an acre to plant other products," he said.

He says new jobs are also expected to open up, as people like Buckler plan to research how the plant grows best.

"The different researchers around in Arizona, the different solar companies, the different lighting companies," Buckler said.

Farmers are expected to start planting the seeds in the next 30 days.

"We're going to see huge successes and we'll see some that don't do well," Pullen said.

Not long after that, they predict you'll start seeing a change at your local drug store.

"You'll be buying CBD lotions and other products there," Pullen said.

"Part of what it means for you too, is you're going to know exactly where it came from," Buckler said.