USDA’s new hemp rule was generally well received by industry and states, but one longtime advocate is raising concerns that its testing requirements could create a logjam at harvest time.

Hemp growers already facing a learning curve when it comes to producing the crop this year are confronting a scarier prospect than low yields or a lack of processing facilities: the potential for seizure of their crop on the road.

This year's hemp crop is three times bigger than last year's, which could mean a struggle for growers trying to get their plants processed.

The hemp industry is closely watching a court case being argued Wednesday that spotlights the issue of interstate transportation of the highly touted commodity.

The Environmental Protection Agency will consider adding industrial hemp to the allowable uses for 10 pesticide active ingredients, the agency announced Wednesday.

Farmers should join the enthusiasm about industrial hemp’s huge potential, ranging from medicinal uses to bioplastics, chemicals, fuels, paper and bioremediation – but proceed with caution.