Author: Lets Talk Hemp

Bringing the Global Hemp Market to the US – Third Annual NoCo Hemp Expo a Huge Success

Largest hemp expo and trade show in North America displays the maturation of the growing hemp market and carries a tune of freedom, innovation, and progress for U.S. economy.

This press release was orginally distributed by ReleaseWire

Loveland, CO — (ReleaseWire) — 04/07/2016 — Presented by: CBDRx

2016 marks an unforgettable year for NoCo Hemp Expo. As crowds gathered on April 1-2 outside of the Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, CO, one thing was clear: the word is out about hemp.

Over 3,100 people attended the expo this weekend, almost tripling last year’s attendance rate of 1,250 with visitors traveling from across the globe to witness the many advances taking place in the hemp industry today.

Produced by Colorado Hemp Company, NOCO3 was an awe-inspiring event including hundreds of local and international hemp-based businesses, investors and entreprenuers, all coming together for the common goal of furthering a market for hemp in the U.S.

The significance of this year’s event was marked by the increasing number of hemp-based business and the diversity of business models present, calling attention its role in commercial and economical development.

“The 3rd Annual NOCO hemp expo was sensational! Colorado Hemp Company is a monumental force in the hemp industry bringing farmers, processors , retailers and more into one venue for a spectacular event! Amazing weekend for networking, education and information…unlike any other hemp event!” -Tim Gordon, Operations Chief at CBDRx

Attendees awaited entrance into the fully-packed 36,000 sq. ft. arena where companies like Manitoba Harvest, Elixinol, SeedCX, and Hemp Flax met to converge and represent a global industry currently making its way to the U.S.

The Word Is Out About Hemp

For those on the ground floor, NoCo3 was a time to shine.

NoCo Hemp Expo featured a bold representation of leaders uniting under one roof for the future of hemp, demonstrating the magnitude of its many applications and uses from activities and educational workshops to art and automotive installations.

Exhibitors presented unique advances in technology such as hemp 3-D printing and the hemp-made, hemp battery-powered bicycle from Reakiro Labs, accenting its ability to support other existing industries through the retrieval of sustainable living.

Over 130 exhibitors participated at NoCo3 this year, providing a myriad of services and offering top of the line products like all-natural hemp clothing from Vital Hemp, Fibre Poet, and more.

Another key element to the expo was “Step-n-Out in Hemp”, an earth-conscious fashion feature presented by EnviroTextiles‘s Summer Star-Haeske. The show featured stylish, sophisticated looks from designers worldwide like Hemptique, I.O.N Clothing, Conscious Elements, Lexus Hemp Fashion, and other must see brands.

Hemp body care products were a hit at the 2016 expo, with products from Ambary Gardens, and Nature’s Root Spa who offered in-house massages and facial treatments for attendees.

Speakers like Dr. Bob Melamede with Phoenix Tears and Author Doug Fine shed light on hot-button topics like plant prohibition, cannabinoids and neuroscience, bio-refining, and domestic energy independence on the Let’s Talk Hemp Stage.

Guests could literally feel the wheels of age-old knowledge turning as legendary activist and founder of Hemp Herer Industries, Dan Herer discussed the roots of our inextricable history with this amazing plant.

The Hemp Investment Summit

The Hemp Business Journal‘s first ever Hemp Investment Summit was a major milestone of the 2016 expo which showcased emerging businesses looking to take the stage in the hemp industry in 2017.

Sean Murphy, Founder at HBJ spoke on the state of the hemp industry in “What’s the Data Telling Us?” followed by an investor panel featuring Hunter Lovins, CEO at Natural Capitalism and Chris Boucher at Ananda Scientific.

In the processing panel, “What an Investor Needs to Know,” Hemp Inc.’s David Schmitt was joined by Ed Lehrburger, Founder and CEO at Pure Hemp Technology and Trey Riddle, CEO at Sunstrands.

Along with Alan Dronkers, CEO at Hemp Flax the investment summit featured insights from the world’s leading movers and shakers in hemp.

These are the key players who are molding the hemp industry into a coming of age, rapidly growing professional arena for entrepreneurs, farmers, retailers, and consumers today.

Moving Things Forward

Simply put, there isn’t an expo in the world that better encompasses the potential of the hemp plant. NoCo Hemp Expo is host to a growing network of individuals coming together in support of a tremendous opportunity for local industry, agriculture, and small business economy.

“Eurofins STA Laboratories is a newcomer to the testing of hemp seed for germination, seed health and cultivar purity and the 2016 NOCO Hemp Expo was a tremendous help in getting the word out to growers and companies about our services. Having a booth at the Expo provided us the means by which we could reach many potential clients in a short span of time. It was well worth it.” -John R. Mizicko, Business Development Manager at Eurofins STA Laboratories

For more information on the companies presented at NoCo3 or for live footage from the event featuring cutting-edge discussions, and ground-breaking topics from experts in their field visit http://www.nocohempexpo.com.

Stay tuned to Colorado Hemp Company and NoCo Hemp Expo to learn more about the hemp movement and how you can get involved in 2016! Visit National Hemp Association for year round gatherings and events regarding hemp legislation and donate to federal their campaign to help end prohibition today.

About NoCo Hemp Expo, Colorado Hemp Company and TreeFreeHemp
WAFBA LLC (We Are For Better Alternatives) is home to the NoCo Hemp Expo, TreeFreeHemp and Colorado Hemp Company located in Loveland, Colorado and operating since 2012. Areas of focus include product and brand development, marketing, printing, production, events and advocacy.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/bringing-the-global-hemp-market-to-the-us-third-annual-noco-hemp-expo-a-huge-success-679311.htm

Media Relations Contact

Abbie Marks
Press Manager
NoCo Hemp Expo
Telephone: 985-518-7493
Email: Click to Email Abbie Marks
Web: http://www.nocohempexpo.com

Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/2895853#ixzz479daMhbl

April 12, 2016
The Rebirth of Industrial Hemp: Processing and Bio-refineries
Hemp is on the rise today, and facilities like Pure Hemp Technology and contributing to what Carl Lehrburger calls, “the thrust of the hemp revolution”.

By: Abbie Marks
With the passing of the federal Farm Bill and supporting state pilot programs, local businesses are providing farmers an opportunity in industrial hemp while manufacturing eco-friendly products.

Pure Hemp Technology, a hemp processing plant and bio-refinery located in Fort Lupton, CO is doing just that, promoting sustainable agriculture by converting industrial hemp into useable products.

As of last year, Colorado Department of Agriculture reported 3,675 acres of hemp grown in 2016, nearly tripling in volume of growing space and in number of participants last year. According to the National Hemp Association, hemp farming nationwide grew 1,000% in 2015.

Hemp farmers are driving the demand for companies like Pure Hemp Technology to process hemp today.

In this video with Ed Lehrburger, Founder of Pure Hemp Technology and Dani Billings, Co-Founder of Colorado Hemp Project and Nature’s Root discuss the role of the hemp plant in Colorado’s’ booming agricultural economy.

“Processing represents the thrust of the hemp revolution.” –Carl Lehrburger, Executive Manager of Pure Hemp Technology

Pure Hemp Technology is a wet processing plant which distinguishes them in their approach and represents a key “central supply chain” that simply doesn’t exist for whole plant processing.

(media credit: www.purehemptech.com)

This allows plants like Pure Vision to refine hemp into higher value products and strains in addition to fiber, pulps for paper, and other materials like lignin which consists of 20% of the plant. These materials are processed into several applications from chemicals and plastics to sugars, sweeteners, alcohol, and more.

Pure Vision/Pure Hemp Technology is a registered R&D facility in Colorado, producing different grades of pulps and stalks/hurd, long fibers, into useful products for green businesses.

Processing these co-products into these higher value products is critical to growing hemp.

“A company looking into textiles, processing, seed, etc, that only represents a fraction (of the market value),” says Lehrburger, “it makes growing it (hemp) more valuable (for American farmers).”

Facilities like Pure Hemp Technology provide farmers a means to commodify their harvest as well as readily available sustainable alternatives and to everyday consumer goods.

“Farmers have to be successful, pricing of commodities has to also be successful to buy seed, specialized equipment, etc.”

In light of the decline in opportunity and the challenges faced by Rural American farmers today, Lehrburger discussed the potential for jobs not only in the growing and agricultural sectors but in processing and manufacturing.

“The start of the hemp industry seems to represents a significant opportunity for revitalizing rural America, where the bigger picture is replacing oil-based products with bio-based products.”

In this article from Environmental Health News, Jessica Knoblauch reports that “evidence is mounting that the chemical building blocks that make plastics so versatile are the same components that might harm people and the environment. And its production and disposal contribute to an array of environmental problems.” 1.

Supporting the Industrial Hemp Farming Act, urging businesses to consider go green, and reaching out to congress is a huge push away from plastics and a way to help surge the rebirth of industrial hemp.

For more information on hemp processing and bio-refineries like Pure Hemp Technology, join Ed Lerhburger and Carl Lerhburger at NoCo Hemp Expo on April 1-2 at The Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, CO. Ed will be speaking at the Let’s Talk Hemp stage along with several key industry experts and business leaders during Saturday, April 2. To learn more about the expo and view a full schedule of events click here!
1. Knoblauch, Jessica A. “The Environmental Toll of Plastics.” Environmental Health News. N.p., 2 July 2009. Web. 30 Mar. 2016.
April 1, 2016
Driving Hemp into the Future: BMW Goes Biodegradable

Lighter-weight, fuel-efficient vehicles with hemp are right down the road.

By: Brad Shannon

Why use hemp to make automobiles? For a number of reasons. Hemp is lighter than steel or fiberglass, resists dents and is not brittle like carbon fiber, and it is biodegradable. Most importantly, hemp is carbon negative, says Bruce Dietzen of Renew Sports Cars.

(BMW door panel – media credit: Redspiderfish/Flickr)

Work is ongoing in Australia and Europe to create plant-based materials to replace parts that today use plastic and metal. A reduction in weight of 30% for such parts provides an instant boost in fuel economy, with a higher strength-to-weight ratio than steel. When it reaches the end of its useful life, just bury it and let it biodegrade.

You may have come across the story of Henry Ford’s hemp car online. Unfortunately, it seems that there is a lot of myth to that tale, according to The Angry Historian – at least when it comes to how much of the car was actually made of hemp. Rather, the plastic body panels used standard resin binder combined with natural materials such as hemp fiber as fill material. That popular image of Ford taking a whack at a car with an axe? It was a soybean-based material.

(media credit: Ford archives)

A sleeker, safer, faster modern take on a hemp car is a slick sports car built on a Mazda Miata chassis by Dietzen. The car’s body is made of hemp, and runs on biofuel that is a closed carbon loop in that it does not add any new carbon to the atmosphere when burned. It made an appearance down the road from us in Denver late last year. The next big step, it appears, could be vehicles with 3D printed hemp bodies; but some find it hard to beat the Lotus Eco Elise prototype from the 2008 British Motor Show, or the i3 and i8 concepts from BMW that incorporated hemp.

(media credit: Renew Sports Cars)

If you’re like most, though, your budget may run more along the lines of the electric Kestrel with hemp body panels promised by Calgary, Canada-based Motiv Industries (a neighboring market with more enlightened views on hemp cultivation that puts companies there at an advantage).

(media credit: Motiv Industries)

Not ready for a hemp-based car body? How about a nicer, more natural interior? Mercedes led the industry with jute-based door panels in its E-class, and BMW and Audi VW have followed in the use of plant fibers in their vehicles.

(media credit: Lotus)

Learn more about hemp and its future in the automotive and other industries from a wide variety of experts at the NoCo Hemp Expo 2016 at The Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, CO April 1-2.

March 31, 2016
The Stage is Set! Industrial Hemp Expo Unites Global Participants

Sponsored By Game Changers: Seed CX

The Time is Now to Sow the Seed

Are you ready for the largest hemp event in North America?

Opening Ceremonies begin Friday, April 1^st at 10 AM at The Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, CO. The NoCo Hemp Expo, now in its third year,  is the place to be for all things hemp. Colorado Hemp Company is honored to bring together the most experienced thought leaders from around the globe.

On April 2, stop by the Colorado Hemp Company Booth from 2-3 PM for your very own hemp-printed Declaration of Independence or pocket Constitution and have it autographed by our special guest Ben Franklin, Christopher Lowell.  Visit the Let’s Talk Hemp Stage as he shares his knowledge of hemp in the U.S from the perspective of one of our nation’s brightest inventors and leaders.

Did you know? Benjamin Franklin’s discovery of the electric current set in place the building blocks to modern electricity as well as many modern terms and applications still used today like the battery.

You won’t want to miss the myriad of hemp activities happening at NoCo Hemp Expo this weekend! Speaking on Processing and Technology, Doug Fine joins Pure Hemp Technology’s Ed Lehrburger and other knowledgeable panelists for an in-depth look into the future of hemp. From bio-refineries to hemp super capacitors, the applications for the hemp plant are endless and will be discussed at NoCo3.

Learn how to juice using hemp with professional Chef and Certified Biofeedback Specialist Cece Stalter of CBDRx. Take a glance into health, wellness, and nutrition with panelists like Dr. Bob Melamede, Ph.D. Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry and sample some of Ari Sherman’s Evo Hemp bars.

Join the fun with paper-making and hemp building workshops and more at the Quicksilver Scientific Stage. Embrace the world of quality hemp products from over 130 exhibitors at the expo or attend  a panel on U.S. made products featuring Dani Billings, Founder of Nature’s Root and Summer Star-Haeske, Owner/Co-Founder of EnviroTextiles.

Stick around for Keynote Speech from Doug Fine on The State of The Hemp Industry in 2016 and a message from Ben Franklin on Patriotism, Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness happening at 4:00 PM in the Let’s Talk Hemp Theater.

Closing out NoCo3, Rep. Jared Polis will be delivering the Call to Action and speaking on the state the hemp industry in terms of in-state and federal legislation as well as the economic opportunities available in hemp. Polis and his Staff have been championing for hemp since the inaugural NoCo Hemp Expo was first produced in 2014. Come learn more about the state of hemp and be a part of the movement happening throughout the U.S.

Click here for a live schedule of the event. Purchase your tickets today before prices go up on Friday at the door! Enjoy a weekend dedicated to  hemp with live entertainment, hands-on activities, art, networking, and more at #NoCoHempExpo and be sure to check out the live HempWall where you can connect your message with everyone at the expo.

About NoCo Hemp Expo, Colorado Hemp Company and TreeFreeHemp

WAFBA LLC (We Are For Better Alternatives) is home to the NoCo Hemp Expo, TreeFreeHemp and Colorado Hemp Company located in Loveland, Colorado and operating since 2012. Areas of focus include product and brand development, marketing, printing, production, events and advocacy.

Press Contact: Abbie Marks

(985) 518-7493

abbie@nocohempexpo.com

March 30, 2016
The Future of Sustainable Building: Eco-Friendly Insulation, HempCrete and More

John Patterson of Tiny Hemp Homes and Joy Beckerman of Hemp Ace International describe how hemp is an ideal material for construction and see its application in commercial and home building growing in 2016.

By: Brad Shannon

Hemp as a building material has roots that stretch back millennia. Buildings constructed thousands of years ago using hemp still stand today at Ellora Caves in India, a testament to the plant’s suitability and durability as a construction material.

“Hemp as a building material is not a new idea,” notes Joy Beckerman of Hemp Ace International. “It’s an ancient trend proven over thousands of years, and there’s no need for new research to find ways to use it – we already know.”

Including the long list of benefits from green building, the versatility and sustainability of hemp is perhaps best showcased in the myriad ways it can be used as a building material today.

John Patterson of Tiny Hemp Houses notes that “A hemp wall replaces the combination of drywall, insulation, exterior boarding, house wrap, siding, caulk and paint all in one thermal wall system. It’s great at keeping a more comfortable constant temperature, is fire resistant, breathable, mold-, pest- and mildew-resistant, and over time extremely affordable.”

This helps create a home where, as Sergiy Kovalenkov’s company Hempire UA notes, hemp insulation and a high thermal mass helps regulate temperature and humidity to reduce heating and cooling costs; hemp materials create naturally vapor-permeable walls reduce or eliminate the need for ventilation; and hemp helps create a quiet living space that is non-flammable, resists mold and mildew, and repels pests. Using natural materials eliminates the possibility of toxic off-gassing from manmade materials, which could have a positive impact on our health.

(Hemp stalks showing the interior hurd media credit: HempCrete WorkShops)

Beyond being a versatile building material, using hemp for building is also good for the earth. Growing hemp helps not only reduce CO2 emissions, but actively removes CO2 from the air.

(Hemp hurd ready for use media credit: HempCrete Workshops)

Tiny Hemp Homes notes that industrial hemp is only grown on about 100,000 hectares globally, producing a crop valued at about $600 billion across industries that use hemp as a raw material.

That market will no doubt grow in the footsteps of what Beckerman describes as “a tremendous surge in projects globally and in the U.S., including commercial projects like the Marks & Spencer Cheshire Oaks store and The Triangle Project, a 40-unit housing complex, both in the UK. They use much less energy than traditional construction, and that is one thing that is making this something that is not just for tiny homes or pods.”

(HempCrete, Hemp Insulation, and Hemp Chip Board media credit: HempCrete Workshops)

Learn more about building with hemp from local, national, and global experts like Frank Wetenkamp, a Natural Building Professional with Tiny Hemp Houses, Joy Beckerman of Hemp Ace International, John Patterson of Tiny Hemp Houses, Sergiy Kovalenkov of Hempire UA, David Neisingh of Reakiro Labs, Anndrea Hermann of Hemp Technologies and many others at NoCo Hemp Expo 2016 at The Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, CO April 1-2.

In particular, don’t miss the Building with Hemp sessions featuring all of these folks in a panel discussion. Plan to catch one of these sessions:

April 1

Hempcrete Mixing with a Natural Plaster Finish
1:00 to 2:30 pm on the Quicksilver Scientific Workshop Stage

April 2

Hempcrete Mixing with a Natural Plaster Finish
Noon to 1:30 pm on the Quicksilver Scientific Workshop Stage

2:45 to 3:25 pm in the Hemp Business Journal Summit Room

(media credit: HempCrete Workshops)

March 28, 2016
Introducing the NoCo Hemp Expo HempWall!

By: Rachel Jackson

2016 has been a monumental year for hemp, and especially big for the NoCo Hemp Expo! As the largest, smartest hemp expo in the country, we want to connect our message with people in every way we can. That’s why this year the NoCo Hemp Expo is unveiling a brand new interactive social media platform, the Tweetwall!

Affectionately dubbed the HempWall, think of it as your interactive information stand. Throughout the Expo, we’ll be broadcasting the next big event, speaker, or panel happening up on screens all over the Expo! So when you are looking for the next hempcentric activity, look no further than the HempWall! You’ll be totally connected to everything happening around you, so you’ll want to check back frequently to make sure you’re not missing a thing.

But that’s not the whole reason we’re doing this. This is the 3rd year of the NoCo Hemp Expo, and we never would have gotten here if not for the loving support of all our attendees and volunteers. Without you we never would have gotten to be the biggest, baddest hemp expo in the country, and this year we want the spotlight to be on you! So we want to see YOU while you’re sampling, cooking, painting, jamming or just having fun at the #nocohempexpo! And we’re doing that through the magic of our HempWall.

It’s pretty simple. Log in to your Twitter account, follow @NoCoHemp, and simply tag your photo, thought, or friends with the hashtag #nocohempexpo. It will automatically pop up on the HempWall, which is being projected up on screens all over the Expo! So when you snap a selfie with Ben Franklin, or find your new favorite hemp snack, put it on Twitter and hashtag #nocohempexpo, so everyone can see! Maybe you’ll even see someone you know.

Nowhere near a Hempwall screen? Check your pocket. The Tweetwall also works on your mobile phone, if you pull up the website on your smartphone you’ve got the #nocohempexpo right in your hand. Send the link to your friend who couldn’t make it, and they can watch the #nocohempexpo livestream in front of their eyes. It’s almost as much fun as being there (almost.)

You can check out the HempWall in action over at nocohempexpo.tweetwally.com. Get those Twittering fingers ready, and we can’t wait to see you April 1st and 2nd!

Another great reason to check out the wall? We’re also going to be livetweeting the event! Think of it like your interactive information stand, we’ll keep you updated on speakers, panelists, workshops and more! You’ll want to check back to the screens frequently so you don’t miss a thing, and really get the whole expo experience!

March 28, 2016
Hemp Road Trip: Bringing Back the Local Farmer

Rick Trojan and his team at The Hemp Road Trip rally for change, supporting farmers and informing citizens about the importance of The Industrial Hemp Farming Act.

By: Thomas Ivory, Jr.

Traveling America in a B100 biodiesel short-bus decorated with “What can hemp do…” graphics and a fine looking man in a sport-coat behind the steering-wheel can be quite adventurous. Venturing from Denver, Colorado, towards Eastern America, this road trip has one purpose: to educate U.S. citizens about hemp

“The initial course was 4 months, and we left January 28^th,” said Rick Trojan, Hemp Road Trip founder, speaker, and driver. “We wanted to go around to talk with people and start educating, on a grassroots level, about this (hemp) plant and this crop… We have met people from farmers, to students, to teachers, to just regular citizens.”

The intent, also, is to get Industrial Hemp recognized on a political level. “The original plan was to follow the presidential primaries,” said Trojan. “We went to Iowa, and then we ended up in New Hampshire during their primaries. We went to Washington D.C., and then down to the Carolinas during their primaries. That was the initial flow, to follow the primaries. But then, as we got on the road, we let serendipity take its course, and we started meeting people here and there. So we adapted our schedule, to keep it fluid.”

Trojan added, “Convincing politicians to come on board (being pro-hemp) is critical to the passing of the Industrial Hemp Farming Act, which is what we’re focusing on this year, for 2016.”

Legislation concerning Industrial Hemp has been around for a while. The Hemp Road Trip strives toward creating awareness and support for these proposals.

“There are a couple of bills in front of the House and the Senate, at the moment, having to do with hemp – whether its CBD specific bills or whether its the Industrial Hemp Farming Act – which are the House Bill H.R. 525 and Senate Bill 134,” said Trojan. “And these bills have been proposed for the past 10 years. Essentially, what they would do is take hemp off the controlled substance act – de-schedule hemp –meaning hemp would no longer be considered a drug… Another bill, presented by Bernie Sanders, Senate Bill 2237, would actually declassify cannabis in general.”

This political movement would help American farmers have more agricultural options. “We’re finding: farmers want something different to plant,” said Trojan.

“Having this as an option, I mean, not all farmers are going to plant hemp. Just like not all farmers plant corn, or soy, or cotton. Farmers are going to find what works for them. But they need to have this arrow in their quiver, if you will.”

For Industrial Hemp to be a concern for politicians, they need to know it is a concern for the people who elected them. “The politicians are for their constituents,” said Trojan. “They have 100 things on their plate. They deal with things they hear from their constituents. So, that has really been our focus: to get people to call their elected officials, on a State and Federal level, to let them know about hemp… Hearing from the people themselves, if we truly want to treat this as a democracy and exercise our right as citizens, we should take the time to call or e-mail our representatives to let them know that this (illegalization of hemp) law needs to be changed.”

Trojan added. “We’re focusing on the Industrial Hemp Farming Act because at the moment it has the most momentum, from my view.”

Momentum on a political level begins with proper knowledge and education from the citizens. “80 years of misinformation has been intentionally presented,” said Trojan. “It is time to get the misinformation out and the correct information in, and then people can choose what they want… With the Internet, it is such a valuable resource. People can educate themselves and be an activist. If only on this one issue, they would have done a good deed – a good deed for themselves, their families, their country, and the economy. I think it just makes sense to educate themselves, and to talk to friends and family, and to talk to their legislatures (about legalizing Industrial Hemp).”

By the 1^st of April, the B100 short-bus and Hemp Road Trip will return to Colorado for NoCo3 Hemp Expo, completing the first phase of the trip. The second phase, which will begin sometime in April, includes western America: Nebraska, California, and Washington state.

To view Hemp Road Trip photos (of two brought along hemp-based US flags unraveled in front of State Houses, and with several presidential candidates), informative Industrial Hemp links and resources, and to donate to the road trip cause, visit: www.hemproadtrip.com.

And visit your State website for information on how to contact your local representative and congressperson.

“We should allow our farmers to get hemp in the ground and bring back the local farmer and the family farmer,” said Trojan. “We (Hemp Road Trip) will continue on our quest to educate the people.”

March 26, 2016
How Building With Hemp Can Help Curb Climate Change
Between the manufacture of building materials, transportation of those materials and construction equipment, energy use and worker transportation, along with the final disposal of construction waste, the United States building sector is becoming one of the world’s largest threats to climate change.

Did you know?
- Half of the world’s energy goes into buildings throughout their lifetime – from construction, through use, and finally demolition.
- Buildings, and the construction and use of those buildings, also contribute to almost half of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions.
- Transporting the materials to a building site constitutes 6-8% of total greenhouse gas emissions for a project.
- Construction is one of the largest consumers of raw materials, using 25 percent of the world’s timber.
- The manufacture of concrete and reinforced steel account for 94-95% of greenhouse gas emissions for construction materials.
The U.S. Green Building Council reports that not only does the United States commercial and residential building sector consume 70 percent of electricity, but accounts for 39 percent of all CO2 emissions produced. In fact, U.S. buildings alone are said to be responsible for more carbon emissions annually than those of any other country, except China.

Hempcrete is made of the inner woody core of the hemp plant (called shiv or hurd) mixed with a lime-based binder and water. It is environmentally friendly, non-toxic, energy-efficient and resistant to fires, mold and insects.

Hempcrete, and other hemp building materials, have the ability to transform the building sector into a more energy-efficient and climate-friendly industry, playing a major role in reducing our ecological footprint. Here’s how.

Manufacturing

The manufacture of concrete and reinforced steel accounts for 94-95 percent of greenhouse gas emissions produced from construction materials. These materials are often made using poisonous chemicals and continue to release toxins into the environment even after the buildings are constructed.

Contrary to these traditional construction materials, hemp is typically a low-maintenance, fast-growing agricultural crop that thrives in both temperate and tropical climates. While it grows, it absorbs carbon emissions and helps replenish the soil with nutrients. Once mature, it can be harvested and processed into a concrete-like mixture called hempcrete.

Hemp processing is much less destructive to the environment than traditional concrete production. It requires less energy to produce, and it is a sustainable, annually renewable industrial resource.

HempFlax is a company focused on the production and processing of sustainable resources, semi-finished and finished products made from ecologically grown fibre hemp and flax. They discourage unnecessary logging and deforestation by producing hemp wood for paper, construction material, sawdust and many other environmentally damaging consumer goods.

Transportation

Manufacturing building materials that are then transported to a building site to be constructed into a final structure, all emit large amounts of greenhouse gases and consume increasing quantities of energy. To reduce transportation costs and increase efficiency, hemp is often grown in close vicinity to the production facilities.

On farm processing methods have also been explored in an effort to decrease these costs. Hypothetically, all processing and transportation equipment could run on hemp biodiesel – but that’s down the road.

Pictured above: The Nauhaus Prototype Project, a hempcrete home in Asheville, North Carolina. Click here to learn more about our stay in The Nauhaus!

Construction

Hemp can replace traditional construction materials like concrete, timber, and steel with applications like hempcrete and other hemp-based construction materials like hemp fiberboard and hemp insulation.

Hempcrete is lightweight, non-toxic, and biodegradeable. It is usually mixed on-site, although precast walls and blocks are also available. Building with hempcrete offers design flexibility, because it has the ability to form around any shape, then set and support its own weight.

Energy Usage

A significant amount of emissions come from the combustion of fossil fuels to provide heating, cooling and lighting, and to power appliances and electrical equipment. Hempcrete regulates temperature and humidity; in some cases completely eliminating the need for heating and cooling systems, resulting in noticeable energy savings.

“Hempcrete is used as an environmental barrier for providing resistance to heat transfer and managing moisture of the building envelope,” says Kris J. Dick, an associate professor in the Department of Biosystems Engineering at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg and director of Alternative Village, its construction research facility. “Engineers and architectural designers practicing in the field of nonconventional material applications have clearly indicated a need for more design data regarding hempcrete.”

As time passes, the strength of hempcrete has shown to increase. The lime-binding agent that is mixed with the hemp hurd calcifies and gets harder over time. The average hempcrete building is expected to last several hundred years.

Pictured above: John Patterson from Tiny Hemp Homes showing Kentucky Hempsters, Kirstin Bohnert, his latest project in Berthoud, Colorado. Click here to learn more about our visit with John and his Tiny Hemp Home in CO !

What to learn more about Hempcrete?

Industry leaders and experts will gather together on April 1-2 in Loveland, Colorado for the NoCo Hemp Expo, the largest hemp-centric event in the country. Join John Patterson and Frank Wetenkamp from Tiny Hemp Homes for a “Building with Hemp” workshop from 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm on April 1 or 12:00 – 1:30 pm on April 2.

Be sure to sign-up for our mailing list for future hempcrete building workshops this season!

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Sources

Image source (top): https://www.facebook.com/alembicstudio/photos/a.1018396308179468.1073741829.150498734969234/1138901149462316/?type=3&theater

https://helix.northwestern.edu/blog/2011/03/construction-has-costly-carbon-footprint

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/10/hempcrete-hemp-house_n_1506662.html

http://www.eesi.org/files/climate.pdfhttp://www.collective-evolution.com/2013/02/03/hempcrete-worlds-strongest-building-material/http://hempflax.com/en/what-is-hemp/hemp-processing

https://www.asme.org/engineering-topics/articles/construction-and-building/green-alternative-to-insulation-materials

http://hempflax.com/
March 26, 2016
An Insider’s Look Into Craft Brewing with Hemp: High Hops Brewery at NoCo Hemp Expo

Zach Weakland describes the process of brewing with hemp while his team at High Hops Brewery take on new meaning to celebrating the American Farmer with delicious seasonals and ales year-round.

By: Thomas Ivory Jr.

High Hops Brewery has been family owned and operated since September 2012, but the family-run business has functioned since 1991 as Plant-a-Scape, a seasonal greenhouse in Windsor, which eventually became The Windsor Gardner, which is now the home of High Hops Brewery.

“(In 2000) That’s about the same time my parents started home-brewing,” said Weakland. “And that’s the same time I was in high school chemistry class. It was cool to come home and see the real-world application of chemistry.”

Craft breweries produce less than 50,000 barrels of beer a year. (1 barrel equal about 31 gallons.) After Weakland graduated university, “With 2 and a half acres of hops, we had more hops than we knew what to do with, so we opened up a brewery,” he said.

Around 2013 Morris Beegle, co-founder of NoCo Hemp Expo, approached High Hops Brewery with the idea to make hemp beer. “We could totally make a hemp beer,” Weakland replied. “It (hemp) is supplemental (with hops). We actually add the hemp after fermentation, so it would be the equivalent to dry hopping, or we call it, ‘dry hemping,’ the beer.”

To make beer, as a home-brewer, about 2 gallons of water is heated to a near boil, and then turned off for specialty grains to steep for 20 minutes. The grains are removed, and a malt extract is added. The heat is turned back on and the mixture, now referred to as a “wort,” is brought to a boil.

At the beginning of the boil, hops are added for the next hour (generally at the 60 minute marker, 30 minute marker, and at 0 minutes the heat is turned off and the final hops added steep for 10 minutes.)

At the end, the wort is cooled to the fermentation temperature, generally 72 degrees Fahrenheit, as quickly as possible. Once cooled, the wort is transferred to a 5 gallon fermenter-barrel, about 3 more gallons of room-temperature water is mixed with the wort, and then the yeast is added. The barrel is capped with an airlock/siphon assembly so it can breathe.

The fermenter-barrel is placed in an area that stays at a similar temperature to the optimum fermentation (generally room-temp, or cooler for pilsners and lagers.) Areas that receive direct sunlight should be avoided. Fermentation should be very active for 3-5 days, at which point activity will slow. Then, at this point, additional hops, or hemp, can be added for dry hopping.

The beer is bottled or transferred to a secondary fermenter-barrel for further aging and clarifying.

“We use the whole hemp plant;” said Weakland, “the leafs and flowers, and some stems.”

“Last year we grew a half acre of hemp for the hemp beer,” he later said.

High Hops Brewery produces many types of beer, but their hemp beer is a red ale. “I like to get that real earthy hemp flavor, as much as you can,” said Weakland. “It’s mostly an aroma agent, the hemp, anyway. The later in the process you add it, the more flavor you are going to get, or at least that’s the way we do it.”

High Hops Hemp Beer will be on tap at the brewery a week before the NoCo Hemp Expo. Sample the beer at High Hops Brewery, 6461 Hwy 392, Windsor, CO, 80550, and enjoy it at the Expo.

Also, Zach Weakland is hosting a “Brewing Beer with Hemp” workshop at the NoCo Hemp Expo on Friday, April 1^st, from 3:40pm-4:40pm, at the Quicksilver Scientific Workshop Stage. Come learn about the Art of Crafting Beer with Hemp!

March 25, 2016
Growers and Natural Food Companies Seek Local Hemp Seed

Matt Birkholz, President of Colorado Hemp Works discusses how the Hemp Bill in Colorado has evolved the need for seed processing in the U.S.

By: Thomas Ivory, Jr.

Industrial Hemp seeds have a competitive nutritional value: second only to soy in protein, a better source of Omegas than fish oil, are dairy free, gluten free, vegan, non-GMO, and do not carry any allergens such as nut or tree-nut allergens.

“As the stigma begins to wear down that somehow people are going to get high by eating hemp seed,” said Matt Birkholz, president of Colorado Hemp Works, “you might start to discover that the hemp seed is a great alternative.”

Populations of vegetarians and vegans across the U.S. are steadily on the rise. The task of finding plant-based protein can be a challenge. For a long time, the best option has been soy. Hemp can be a great alternative that is more easily digestible by the human body.

Colorado Hemp Works, based out of Longmont, Colorado, is a local Industrial Hemp seed processing facility that aims at providing the best alternative product. “There are a good amount of natural food companies across the U.S. who have been using hemp in their products for years,” said Birkholz, “and there are new ones coming on-line all the time. Initially what we’re (CHW) looking at is trying to supply those types of companies with a fresher product.”

“Instead of the seed they buy from Canada, the hemp hearts or the by-products or the ingredients they buy, those seeds were processed months ago and in large batches, and then warehoused waiting for sale. Our business plan, our offering is: we bring the whole seed down to Colorado and we process it on-demand.”

“So, if a natural food company wants to make their product on a Thursday, we’ll spend Tuesday and Wednesday processing their seed, and deliver Wednesday night or Thursday morning, and get them the freshest product that they can possibly have.”

CHW takes the input of the whole seed and breaks it down, separating the seed shell casings from the hemp hearts, isolating and capturing each one. They currently dehull hemp seeds and have plans to bring in a commercial grade oil press.

Right now, there is a big difference in the price between international seed and Colorado seed, because of the availability, and the laws of bringing viable seed into the State. “Our plan was to rely upon international sourced seed, at least for the time being, and then migrate over to Colorado sourced seed as soon as the market was there,” said Birkholz. “We thought it was 2017, 2018, before farmers in Colorado would have enough seed where it would make sense for them to sell to somebody like me for food grade products; as opposed to selling seed to other farmers for the genetic value.

“What we’re finding, now that we’re operational and the word is starting to get out that we’re for real and we’re actually processing seed and the equipment is moving today, we’re finding a lot of farmers are starting to contact us.”

This year, there are farmers who are growing up to 1000 acres for food grade seed. That puts CHW ahead of schedule for what they predicted.

“We’re excited to be the first (hemp seed) processer, and currently the only de-sheller in the U.S., on a commercial scale,” said Birkholz. “We’re really excited to partner with Colorado farmers. And we’re really excited to be pushing this industry forward. We’re here to serve and we’re here to keep the industry moving.”

CHW is leading the industry in Industrial Hemp seed processing. This gives American companies, and American consumers, the best local products. Visit their website, coloradohempworks.com, to learn more.

“Hemp (oil) can go rancid quickly,” said Birkholz. “A lot of effort is put toward freshness. What is unique about us is the timing, and how close we can process to the time that our customers make their products.”

March 24, 2016
CBD Herbal Elixir Bar Featured at NoCo Hemp Expo

On April 1st-2nd at the NoCo Hemp Expo, The Apothecary will be featuring their Herbal Synergy Elixir Bar, but this weekend they are focusing on hemp. They will be serving herbal-infused probiotic drinks all weekend in addition to their other products. On Friday night, The Spagyric Apothecary will have eight different herbal infusions, four of which will have 15-20 mg CBD to sample during the National Hemp Association’s Networking Event. This will be a time to try out a blend and see how it makes you feel, but most of all to see if it works for you.

They have worked hard on developing these blends to maximize effectiveness for all of hemp’s different uses as a dietary supplement. Since CBD works on so many areas of the body, they have combined it with other plants high in CBD-like chemicals, vitamins and antioxidants. In this way, they are focusing the cannabinoids in hemp to act on certain areas of the body. The synergy of fusing high-CBD hemp with different herbs creates something more powerful than any herb by itself.

Check out the Elixir Bar Menu below and be sure to stop by booth #73 during Friday or Saturday for a sample.

Green Dragon* – (Hemp, Black Pepper, Turmeric, Ginger, Cayenne) A delicious hemp blend great for digestion, inflammation and appetite stimulation.

Venus Flower* – (Hemp, Blue Lotus, Cacao, Schizandra, Passionflower) Enjoy this blend of powerful mood enhancing herbs and relax into a state of bliss.

Mushroom Magik* – (Hemp, Chaga, Red Reishi, Schizandra, Dragon’s Blood, Fo-Ti, Astragalus) A magik blend of immune enhancing and anti-aging herbs. A great preventative and immune building formula.

Canna-Oxidant* – (Hemp, Acai, Acerola, Elderberry, Echinacea) Antioxidant and cannabinoid rich blend with natural forms of Vitamins A, B-6 & C to help forge and support the immune system.

Kundalini Rising – (Schizandra, Eleuthero, Blue Lotus, Passionflower, Ginseng) A delicious blend delicately balanced between relaxation and alertness. Energize and uplift.

Concentration – (Gotu Kola, Ginkgo, Intellect Tree) One of our personal favorites. A very powerful focusing and calming blend that enhances all forms of memory.

Blazing Sun – Ginger & Cayenne with Apple Cider Vinegar) An intense awakening for the mind and body. CAUTION: SPICEY

Chi Energizer – (American Ginseng, Red Ginseng, Eleuthero, Milk Thistle, Acerola Berry) An alchemically produced, reverse engineered energy blend.
*15-20 mg of CBD per serving

March 23, 2016
Going Green This Spring: Top Hemp Fashion Brands in 2016

Spring into Summer with Sustainable Hemp Fashion

One thing we’ve fallen in love with when it comes to hemp is the fashion! Long gone are the days of burlap sacks and hippie necklaces, we’re talking about top-notch designer digs and practical purchases that last a lifetime!

Not only does hemp production require much less water with little to no pesticides compared to cotton, it’s naturally better than any synthetic material.

As people become increasingly conscious about their purchasing decisions, we believe it’s important that hemp textiles are readily available. While the hemp textile industry is in need of further development here in the U.S., many companies located across the country are taking strides to make hemp mainstream and advocate for its commercialization. We’ve listed just a few of our favorite sustainable hemp fashion companies below that are making green the new black.

Pretty Birdie Co.

Stephanie Teague Trippe has defined high-class hemp fashion through her company, Pretty Birdie Co.From elegant wedding gowns to classic business attire, Stephanie offers women the look and feel we want on the inside, and on the outside!

With stunning, hand-sewn pieces made using a variety of hemp-blended materials, you can feel confident that your Pretty Birdie purchase is contributing to sustainable, more environmentally friendly practices.

Plus, her designs are phenomenal! Even catching the eye of four-time Grammy winning artist, Esperanza Spalding, who has been seen wearing Stephanie’s designs on multiple occasions.

We love our Pretty Birdie pieces and probably wear them too often – they really do fit better each time we wear them! The picture to the left is from last summer when we had a photo-shoot in one of the fields we worked with, showing off our Pretty Birdie outfits! Stephanie has recently expanded her company to include kids clothing and will rebrand with a launching of a new website, stay tuned!

Jungmaven

When it comes to being comfy and cool, Jungmaven has us covered! So far, the 60% hemp 40% cotton blend shirts have been our absolute favorite. We can even wear them in the field and the hemp doesn’t stick! The photo below was taken after transferring raw hemp material, and there’s no hemp anywhere on the shirt. Not to mention, it’s so airy and allows our bodies to breath while we work.

We can also throw them on with leggings and a cute scarf for an everyday outfit. Founder, Robert Jungmann, caters to men and women with a variety of simple, colorful, comfortable, yet versatile hemp shirts perfect for all activities.

Jungmaven’s vision is to have everyone in a hemp T-shirt by 2020 to help mitigate climate change.

We’ve got ours, Do you?!

Hemp Blue

Did you know at one point Kentucky produced a fabric called “Kentucky jeans” made from hemp? In fact, the first Levi Jeans were made using hemp canvas. Now, Hemp Blue is setting an all-new standard with a premium hemp denim line for men and women.

In December, the L.A. based company launched the Hemp Blue project through a Kickstarter campaign, which was successfully funded well over the goal of $25,000. We can’t wait to get our first pair of Hemp Blue jeans this Spring!

Recreator

Who doesn’t love hemp screen tees and sustainable apparel with funky fresh designs? Recreator is re-creating hemp fashion from L.A. with local production from experienced artisans who believe in high-quality, ecological standards. All shirts are dyed, cut and sewn with a distinct pride.

Minawear Hemp Lounge

Ladies, if you’re in the mood to move shop Minawear Hemp Lounge for hemp yoga pants, tops, sundresses and accessories perfect for getting out and moving about! Owner and Founder Mina Haggard prides herself in promoting health, education and care of the planet through her clothing.

Check us out rockin’ our hemp clothes at one of our events last year! Alyssa (pictured left) is wearing the olive spaghetti stap tunic from Minawear Hemp Lounge (see below) and Kirstin (pictured right) has on the flower of life design from Recreator!

Step’n-Out in Hemp at NoCo

Interested in learning more about hemp fashion? The NoCo Hemp Expo is hosting a Hemp Fashion Show on Saturday, April 2 at 3:00 pm in Loveland, Colorado at The Ranch Events Complex. Sponsored by Envirotextiles, Step’n-Out in Hemp offers a first-hand view into the world of sustainable, eco-friendly hemp fashions from the companies who are revolutionizing the textile industry today.

Enviortextiles has been leading the way in hemp fabric and textile production in Colorado and the United States since 2002. The mother-daughter duo, Barbara Filippone and Summer-Star Haekse have been long-committed to producing quality fibers and catalyzing the need for a “cotton” clothing upgrade.

Some of the companies mentioned above will be at the Expo for you to connect with! We look forward to seeing even more hemp fashion brands and expanding our hemp wardrobe. Go green with hemp this spring at NoCo Hemp Expo and join us on Saturday, April 2nd at 3:00 PM to support all things hemp and the much-needed movement towards sustainable clothing and textiles in the U.S.

For more information visit www.nocohempexpo.com.

March 18, 2016
Filling in The Gaps: A Sustainable Solution in Hemp Fabrics

Hot? Cold? Worried about infection? Wrap yourself in hemp!

By: Brad Shannon

Did you know? One of the oldest relics of human history is a piece of hemp fabric dating back to around 8,000 B.C. Betsy Ross is said to have sewn the first U.S. flag from hemp fabric, and the canvas used to make the first pair of Levi’s was even made from hemp fiber.

Today, what’s old is new again, as hemp textiles are being used to make countless items, from apparel to shoes to housewares to furniture upholstery.

The case for using hemp to make fabrics is clear. In addition to the benefits it provides from its growth cycle – enriching the soil and absorbing carbon dioxide from the air, hemp produces 250% more fiber per acre than cotton, 600% more than flax, and uses much less water than cotton to grow. Where cotton farmers use more insecticides than most any other crop grown, hemp uses very little in the way of chemicals for its cultivation.

Hemp Traders notes that hemp textiles were long used mainly in industrial applications, particularly in the age of sailing ships for canvas, rope, and more, because untreated hemp fiber is course and rough. This was a challenge when it came to making apparel and other material for home use. Older methods of softening plant fibers used acids and worked well on cotton and flax, but weakened hemp fiber and made it unusable.

In the 80s, a new enzyme-based process was created, preserving the quality of hemp fibers while softening and smoothing them, producing a better quality of fiber to blend with other fibers or use alone in textiles for clothing.

Whether in a coarse or more finished form, hemp dyes well, taking up and retaining color, breathes in warm weather and has insulating properties in cool weather.

As shown in various studies including “Comparative Study of the Resistance to Aspergillus Niger by Hemp, Cotton, and Flax,” by Bergh and Kitts, hemp has natural antibacterial/antimicrobial properties and is resistant to mold, making it a compelling material to use in products like Nuhni’s (none-eye’s) organic blankets and washcloths which can help to “prevent the spread of staph and pneumonia.”

Hemp is extremely durable and becomes softer over time through use, and is naturally flame resistant without adding chemicals.

(media credit: nuhni.com)

It can be blended with other fibers to achieve a desired feel and structure, incorporating the softness and flex of cotton or the unique smooth texture of silk. Hemp is also used alone to produce a broad variety of fabrics used in myriad products sold around the world.

EnviroTextiles, LLC, a Cultivator-level sponsor of the 2015 NoCo Hemp Expo based in Glenwood Springs, CO, manfactures and imports more than 100 different hemp fabrics from around the world. Founder and hemp textile expert Barbara Filippone has been bringing sustainable hemp into the U.S. for more than 20 years. They offer hemp canvas, twill, muslin, plain weaves, silk blends, jersey knits, fleece, specialty weaves and faux fur, apparel and heavy-duty, upholstery-weight fabrics. These fabrics, from China, Romania, eastern Europe and Mexico, are used by Ralph Lauren, Versace, Volkswagen and others worldwide.

To support the growing interest in the production of hemp-based clothing and household goods, EnviroTextiles offers immediate shipping with no minimums – either from their Colorado headquarters, or direct from the manufacturer to customers who place large production orders. Choose from dozens of unique hemp fabrics, including 100% hemp textiles and blends featuring a variety of other fibers. They also offer for finished clothing items including t-shirts, hoodies and socks, along with hemp towels and tote bags.

This month’s Outside magazine features a t-shirt from Jungmaven, a hemp-based clothing company whose founder Robert Jungman has been working with hemp textiles and natural dyes since 1993. Hemp’s durability plays a role in the current trend of the outdoor apparel industry which focuses on the longevity, indestructibility, and sustainability of the products being make.

Hemp and its history as a valuable fiber and textile in the U.S. has until now been “swept under the rug” by trivial policy. Prohibition on the cultivation of hemp has caused what Vital Hemp Founder Ron Alcalay calls, “a gap in our plant inheritance.” With recent changes in outdated hemp legislation, things are starting to look up for our one of the founding fibers.

Learn more about hemp fibers and textiles from companies like Envirotextiles, LLC, along with Vital Hemp, Jungmaven, and more at NoCo Hemp Expo 2016 at The Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, CO April 1-2.

March 18, 2016
Recharge Your Wardrobe This Spring with Hemp: Sustainable Fashion and Textiles at NoCo 3

Eco-friendly clothing companies aim to bring hemp-trade to the U.S. in 2016.

Sponsored by EnviroTextiles, Step’n-Out in Hemp offers a first-hand view into the world of sustainable, eco-friendly hemp fashions from the companies who are revolutionizing the textile industry today.

Long-committed to producing quality fibers, EnviroTextiles leads the way in hemp fabric and textile production in Colorado and in the U.S. Mother-daughter duo Barbara Filippone and Summer Star-Haeske have owned and operated the Glenwood Springs green-company in since 2002.

Their efforts have catalyzed the need for a “cotton” clothing upgrade in the U.S, bridging cultural values through the core of the East Asian hemp trade, and shedding light of the harmful chemicals being used in everyday apparel.

As one of the most durable and long-lasting fibers on the planet, hemp requires less water to irrigate the plant and fewer acres to grow than the standard cotton fiber. Hemp fabric softens over time, and unlike cotton, uses little to no pesticides.^[1]

Showcasing business attire, casual wear and elegant evening gowns, NoCo 3 features hemp fabrics and designs made by Fibre Poet, Hemptique, Recreator, and more like Hemp Blue, an LA-based hemp denim company whose recent Kickstart campaign reached well over its pledged goal of $25,000 in December 2015.

Importing hemp has been at a high cost to most preliminary manufacturers in the U.S., but given recent changes in state and federal legislature regarding allowing farmers to grown hemp, EnviroTextiles and clothing companies of the like are poised to deliver some of the most natural fibers grown on U.S. soil in years to come.

Go green with hemp this spring at NoCo Hemp Expo and join us on Saturday, April 2nd at 3:00 PM to support all things hemp and the much-needed movement towards sustainable clothing and textiles in the U.S.

Press Contact:
Abbie Marks
(985) 518-7493
abbie@nocohempxpo.com

^[1] KY Hempsters. “Hemp vs Cotton: 3 Reasons Why Cotton Is Not King (and Why Hemp Should Be).” Leafly. N.p., 8 Oct. 2015. Web. 16 Mar. 2016.

March 17, 2016
Art Hands on Hemp!

Local artists exhibit patriotism and progress through sustainable hemp paper donated by Loveland’s own Tree Free Hemp company.

By: Thomas Ivory, Jr.

The long bast fibers of the hemp stalk have an epic reputation for strength, durability, and quality. This is true for cloth, rope, and paper, among other things.
With the incorporation of Industrial Hemp into the art community, artists in NYC and Loveland, CO have gained another form of expression and a carbon-friendly mediu
m to illustrate the limitless potential and possibility for hemp in the US.

Morris Beegle of TreeFreeHemp Paper Company specializes in 100% sustainable, hemp-blended, post-consumer recycled paper products.

“The really good sturdy paper,” said Beegle, “that’s where the fiber comes in. You can blend the hemp fibers with other natural fibers like wood pulp or post-consumer material. Hemp is is a really good binding agent that will make the paper quiet strong.”

From March 3-6, the NYC paper exhibit Art on Paper displayed hemp-artwork by local artist Glenn Goldberg. Held in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, the exhibit was produced in conjunction with Hemp NY City, a multi-day series on the contemporary hemp movement in New York and the nation.

Goldberg received specialty handmade quality hemp paper donated by Tree Free Hemp.

“What I donated to Hemp NY City was 250 8½x11 sheets of 110 pound cover-stock hemp paper,” said Beegle. “It’s 25% hemp, 75% post-consumer recycled. That’s all the paper that we’re doing. That’s the only commercial grade hemp paper on the planet right now.”

Goldberg also received paper made from fiber of several #firstlegalharvest crops including “Ryan Loflin’s 2014 crop, Mike Lewis’ Kentucky 2014 crop, and some from Robin Alberti in Vermont,” said Beegle.

“I sent those out to Green Field Paper Company in San Diego who made a bunch of those deckle 13×20 sheets. That paper was 65% hemp and 35% recycled cotton. Glenn did some little 4×9 individual art pieces with it.”

A unique artisan product does have its flaws.

“The commercial grade paper we use is pretty good for several types of art,” said Beegle, “but the paper is not a bright white, since it’s not bleached; there’s no chlorine.”

Beegle’s hemp paper is off-white given its naturally processing, and has a bit more texture than your standard office paper.

“Some of the colors, if you use watercolor-paint, don’t pop as much as they would on a nice white piece of paper. I do, however, think the absorption (of the paint) is great.”

Back in Colorado, local artists are also getting a chance to work with this timeless medium.

“Loveland is an art hub, if you didn’t know,” said Beegle. “There are all kinds of sculptors and painters around. It’s a pretty artsy little town.”

“I donated 15 sheets of 26×20 to the ArtSpace in Loveland for 15 artists to create pieces from our hemp paper.”

This month at 2nd Fridays in Loveland, the community art walk will display all the amazing hemp paper art provided by Tree Free Hemp

The pieces will also be displayed at NoCo3 in the ArtZone area!

“We have a demonstration space with easels set up and there will be some artists painting,” said Beegle.

“People who want to paint will be able to paint on hemp paper, and we’ll also have a kid’s zone like last year where kids can sit and color on hemp paper. It’s meant to be interactive so people can participate in the expo, paint, create, and walk away with hemp in their hands.”

March 14, 2016
Let’s talk Hemp Policy

Bringing Hemp Back to the U.S. Market: Advocating for Change in Public Policy

By: Hunter Buffington

This week The National Hemp Association brought together farmers, law professionals and entrepreneurs to talk about Hemp Policy. These are the pioneers forging the way in an industry new to Colorado and the United States for the first time in over 70 years. While it may seem that public policy supports the burgeoning Hemp industry; those pushing forward are not immune to peril. Fortunately, there are some who consider these obstacles merely as speed bumps. I am not a lawyer, or a farmer; but I am an entrepreneur and an advocate for economic development that does not compromise people. Hemp represents an amazing opportunity for the US to again lead the world in manufacturing and production, and to encourage a new generation of farmers. Now is the time to pass the Industrial Hemp Act of 2015.

Currently 9 states are growing Industrial Hemp, 14 have passed legislation, and 10 have Policy in the works. While Colorado law supports the growing of hemp and protects those who farm it, we face legal grey areas when it comes to transportation and processing. Ironically, most major producers of Hemp products are still importing their raw materials, even though we have domestically produced hemp available now! This means farmers and producers may be within miles of one another, but the easiest way to access raw material is still through importation; a risky and potentially very expensive venture. The economic opportunity for domestic production is, quite simply, gigantic.

Along with well known fiber and paper products, hemp has the potential to provide fuels, cement, ink, plastics, supplements, and of course food. It’s potential become a cash crop is not limited by its usefulness or the amazing applications that we are seeing in nutrition and industry. Rather, Hemp is being held hostage because of: a disconnection between Legislative Policy and Law Enforcement, the misunderstanding of Marijuana compared to Industrial Hemp, AND most importantly a lack of educated and vocal advocates.

Robert Hoban, a Professor at the Sturm college of Law at the University of Denver and a member of the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Hemp Regulation Advisory Committee. He hopes that events like the Hemp Law Seminar “will equip each of us with the tools to teach our audience”. We are the best ambassadors; in the position to promote the potential for job growth and to prove the economic and social development opportunities. Are you talking about Hemp?

March 13, 2016
Freeing the Seed: Market Value on Hemp Seed Rises

Breeders seek royalties to improve programs while constituents continue to face challenges in seed acquisition and regulation.

By: Abbie Marks

At a recent Seed Seminar hosted by Colorado Department of Agriculture, global wheat company Limagrain’s COO Frank Curtis explains how investing in seed genetics may be one of the most prominent and profitable avenues to pursue in the hemp industry today:

“U.S Wheat Market is not as healthy as people think.” According to market research, wheat production has increased globally in recent years, with a drastic decrease in U.S production.

Limagrain is the 4th largest seed distributor in the world. Curtis sees a great potential for the hemp industry in Colorado. He describes the importance of investing in a seed breeding program for quality genetics Given the steady decline of state and federal funding for seed genomic research, describes

“The best way to improve investment is to reward those who invest and innovate,” says Curtis, and one way to do that is by increasing royalty market value.

In the U.S, only 34% of funds invested in seed breeding is returned to the program in comparison to a high rate of return of 93% in the UK and explains how high return rates in royalties can expand a seed breeding program tenfold.

“This is an illustration of how implementing IP protection effects income and value.”

—Frank Curtis, COO Limagrain

Limagrain’s executive expresses the importance of working together to “illuminate brown-bagging” and build a stronger community of growers and seed breeders today, forming a greater foundation of opportunity for farmers in Colorado. He explains how without enforcing PVP and patent laws, international breeders are unlikely to invest in a U.S seed breeding market.

“Universities, ARS & Private Breeders need to work together to bring benefits to farmers. The Seed industry needs to support seed certification and sell certified seed, and growers need to buy seed.”

Although huge strides are being made throughout the hemp seed industry in Colorado and the U.S today, farmers and entrepreneurs still face many challenges and legal constraints surrounding the acquisition of viable, certifiable seed.

Hemp Business Journal CEO Sean O. explains how the .3% THC threshold for growing hemp in Colorado is “restricting the U.S. hemp industry as a whole.”

“Many advocates and industry experts regard 1 percent THC at dry weight as the more reasonable THC threshold, which provides a more reasonable breeding and cultivating framework for hemp.” – Hemp Business Journal

State legislation has accelerated the opportunity for hemp in Colorado for the agricultural sector and beyond, but farmers still face huge tackles in the hemp industry today.

All signs point to federal legislation in producing the economic results made possible by state pilot programs.

National Hemp Association, Vote Hemp, Hemp History Week, and Hemp Road Trip are just a few advocates rallying for the rescheduling of hemp.

Check out their organizations and see how you can get involved in bringing hemp to the U.S! Stop by the NoCo Hemp Expo on April 1-2 to hear from these leaders and more from all around the globe on the hemp seed market today.

March 11, 2016
7 ways to add hemp to your diet
By: Abbie Marks

Why Hemp? It’s a no-brainer. Hemp contains all the necessary building blocks to restoring balance and health in the body.

Hemp is high in Zinc, Magnesium, Iron, amino acids, and other vitamins and essential minerals and fatty acids including Omega- 3, 6, and 9.

According to a report by Mineral Resources International, these essential vitamins and minerals are what supports a healthy, happy immune system.

Hemp is also a natural anti-inflammatory. Along with the beneficial vitamins and nutrients found in the hemp seed, the essential fatty acid Omega-6 plays a crucial role in reducing chronic inflammation.

“Hemp seed benefits come from their significant amounts of omega-6 fatty acid GLA, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. GLA is metabolized into dihomogamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) by the body, which then intervenes with the ability of arachidonic acid to produce pro-inflammatory molecules. Furthermore, it is known that DGLA is converted to the anti-inflammatory compounds prostaglandin, adding to its ability to control chronic inflammation and its effects.” 1

In this video with #eatmorehemp at the 2015 NoCo Hemp Expo, Thatcher Michelsen shares how the hemp among other contains the necessary components to boost immune health and heal many modern ailments today.

Here are 7 easy ways to help improve digestion, sleep, and overall hormonal balance by adding hemp to your diet:
1. HomeMade Hemp Milk
Making hemp milk is a fun and easy way to receive the essential nutrients found in hemp while balancing hormones and reducing inflammation.

Here is a quick and easy homemade hemp milk recipe by Hemp Oil Canada:

        Ingredients:

        3 cups water

        1 cup hulled hemp seeds

        1 tablespoon agave nectar

        Directions:
1. Put all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth
2. Pour the milk through a sieve or cheesecloth and chill.
3. Serve cold or use for recipes.
1. Hemp Protein Snack
Hemp is one of the few plant-based proteins complete with the essential amino and fatty acids needed for our digestion to function properly. DIY energy balls or homemade hemp nut butters are perfect for the mid-day, pick-me-up protein boost and given the fiber found in hemp seeds, are a great way to lower cholesterol.

(media credit: www.sondibruner.com)

“Meat has more of an impact on the environment than any other food we eat. That’s because livestock require so much more food, water, land, and energy than plants to raise and transport.” – NPR, A Nation of Meat Eaters

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or a steak for lunch and dinner type of person, anyone can benefit from adding hemp to their diet and accessing the essential nutrients found in the hemp seed.

Made from a mixture of organic fruits and nuts, Evo Hemp bars are another favorite go-to for a delicious naturally-sweet and nutritious hemp treat.
1. America’s Favorites
As if we needed more reasons to #eatmorehemp this year, GoodSeed burgers are giving a twist to their traditional plant-based American favorite with a Paleo-friendly line of whole-food patties that are sure to knock your superfood socks off.

Add a burger to Annie’s Organic Mac & Cheese for a protein-packed vegan alternative. Whip up a vegan lasagna or cashew cheese pasta, GoodSeed burgers are gluten-free, sourced locally, and offer a delicous and hearty whopping of omegas to any meat-based diet.

Did you know? Hemp aids in the production of vital enzymes which assist our bodies in digesting protein and other nutrients.

(media credit: www.artisticvegan.com)

“Numerous diseases are known to exist which are caused by the deficiency or malfunction of certain enzymes. Digestive enzymes, for example, are necessary before proteins can be converted to amino acids, starches and complex sugars to simple sugars, and fats to fatty acids and glycerol. These changes must take place before nutrients can be utilized by the body efficiently and without causing allergies.” 3
1. Breakfasts & Smoothies
Adding hemp to your breakfast is a simple and delicious way to reach your daily intake of essential nutrients and can your humdrum morning into a mega boost of health. Hemp seeds taste great plain, tossed into yogurt, sprinkled on toast or cereals, and make for a flavorful boost of protein when added to any breakfast smoothie.

(media credit: www.vibranthealth.com)

Here is an amazing recipe for Hemp pancakes from Manitoba Harvest:
1. Hemp Seed Oil
Cooking with hemp seed oil can help create a healthy balance to any high cholesterol diet given its high fiber and omega-3, 6, and 9 compounds.

“Essential fatty acids are indispensable for the function and development of the brain and nervous system and the production of healthy cell membranes. They also supply hair and skin with necessary nutrients and aid in various other functions in the body.”

In an article by Natural News, hemp seed oil is nearly identical to our own lipids which makes it capable of penetrating and lubricating our cells and the surfaces between them. It is used to nourish “not only dry skin but blotches and lesions as well,” and can “detoxify the skin and even out skin tone.”

(media credit: androidsandcavemen.wordpress.com)

Hemp seed oil has zero trans fats unlike other oils, making it a proponent for heart health and cardiovascular functioning. Use hemp seed oil to dress, marinade, or sauté your favorite dishes and notice the difference in your health today.
1. Supplements
Health Supplements are an excellent way to receive all the essential minerals found in the hemp seed and can be beneficial in reducing inflammation, improving skin and hair, and balancing hormones.

Manitoba Havest’s 1000mg Fatty Acid Capsules and hemp protein powders along with brand like Nutiva, and Nature’s Way can be found at health food stores nationwide.

(media credit: www.popsugar.com)
1. Nutraceuticals
Nutraceuticals (nutritional + pharmaceutical) are products derived from food or food sources that include extra health benefits like treating illness and disease.6

The top form of hemp nutraceuticals on the market today are derived from hemp’s pharmaceutical and medicinal food-based components CBD and terpenes which are benefiting a number of patients and consumers today. Companies like CBDRx provide fully organic, high-grade, medicinal oils used for a variety of industrial and commercial purposes.

Humans and mammals naturally synthesize cannabinoids through our endocannabinoid system, a superhighway for cellular communication and homeostasis in the body which “influences areas of the brain involved in sensations such as pain perception, movement, emotion, cognition, and sleep.”

Hemp has been proven to help treat anxiety, eczema, chronic pain and inflammation and serious illnesses including epilepsy.

“The endocannabinoid system likely has big sway over some brain health conditions. A blockage of cannabinoid receptors called CB1 receptors has been linked to behavioral effects consistent with antidepressant activity. – CBDRx, The Science Behind Organic Healing

For the first time in the state of Colorado, institutions like Aurora Children’s Hospital are being allowed funding to conduct a 3-7ear CBD research study to provide treatments for patients with epilepsy or Dravet’s Syndrome.

To learn more about hemp nutrition, stop by the NoCo Hemp Expo on April 1-2 in Loveland to get your hands on this amazing crop and see for yourself why 2016 is the year for hemp!

More Recipes:
http://www.hempoilcan.com/foodservice/recipes/

http://www.hempoil.ca/hemp-oil-recipes/

Sources:
1. Alton, Lori. “Hemp Seeds Are a Natural Anti-inflammatory Powerhouse.” Naturalhealth365.com. N.p., 30 Nov. 2014. Web. 6 Mar. 2016.
2. Morrow, Nate. “List of Complete vs. Incomplete Protein Sources – BuiltLean.” BuiltLean. N.p., 03 Oct. 2012. Web. 07 Mar. 2016.
3.”The Nature Of Enzymes, Vitamins and Minerals.” Rethinking Cancer. Foundation for Advancement in Cancer Therapy, n.d. Web. 8 Mar. 2016.
1. McKiernan, John. “Hemp Seed Oil: The New Healthy Oil.” NaturalNews. N.p., 1 June 2012. Web. 10 Mar. 2016.
2. “What Studies Say about Hemp Cbd.” Www.cbdrx.com. CBDRx, 1 July 2015. Web. 10 Mar. 2016.
March 10, 2016
Sowing Seeds of Change: Hemp Makes an Impact at 2016 Expo

Individuals gather from around the globe to celebrate the hemp crop and its reentry into the U.S.
Presented by CBDRx

Given the recent onslaught of hemp legislation passed throughout states like Virginia, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Hawaii, many are wondering: Just how many states will it take to overturn the long-awaited federal ban on growing industrial hemp and remove it from the controlled substances list?

Hemp is non-psychoactive cannabis, legal to grow in most every industrialized country, and the United States is the largest importer of raw-hemp and finished-hemp goods on planet Earth. Over half the country has passed legislation at the state level to legalize and grow hemp and more are proposing to amend laws regarding hemp today.

Our farmers, communities, and citizens are still being denied access to the most beneficial, multifunctional, nutritional, industrial, environmental, agricultural crop in human history.

During the LET’S TALK HEMP segment at the NoCo Hemp Expo, you’ll hear from field workers, international experts and U.S. representatives on numerous hot-button topics.

The “TED-Talk”- style event showcases an incredible lineup of knowledgeable panelists and speakers specializing in varying subjects of the industry who are eager to share their insight and experience for this remarkable and historic plant.

With over 70 participants presenting on the pivotal issue of hemp, Let’s Talk Hemp features conversations on policy, products, science and genetics, seed breeding and acquisition, new technologies and innovation, and challenges surrounding the industry today.

Keynote addresses include Founding Father Ben Franklin, author and industry expert Doug Fine, and United States House of Representatives Colorado congressman Jared Polis. Additional featured speakers include Alan Dronkers from HempFlax UK, Adam Dunn from HoodLamb, Anndrea Hermann from Hemp Technologies, Richard Rose the HempNut, Eric Steenstra from the Hemp Industries Association, Shaun Crew from Hemp Oil Canada, and Ed Lehrburger from PureHemp Technology.

Visit the NoCo Hemp Expo website for complete information and to reserve early bird tickets for Saturday only General Admission, 2 day Industry/B2B passes, and the VIP Hemp Investment Summit package. Ticket prices go up on March 21st.

About NoCo Hemp Expo, Colorado Hemp Company and TreeFreeHemp

WAFBA LLC (We Are For Better Alternatives) is home to the NoCo Hemp Expo, TreeFreeHemp and Colorado Hemp Company located in Loveland, Colorado and operating since 2012. Areas of focus include product and brand development, marketing, printing, production, events and advocacy.

Press Contact:
Abbie Marks
(985) 518-7493
abbie@nocohempexpo.com

March 9, 2016
Harnessing Hemp as a Sustainable Resource: Eco-Friendly Fiber and Technology at NoCo Hemp Expo

Presented by CBDRx

Today marks 30 days until show time for the largest hemp expo and trade show in North America! Join Colorado Hemp Company at the Ranch Events Complex on April 1-2 in Loveland, CO for a one-of-a-kind opportunity and view into the hemp industry that you won’t find anywhere else.

Doors open Friday at 10 AM for NoCo Hemp Expo B2B Industry Day where you can meet hemp business leaders and take away key information to grow your hemp business. Purchase a Hemp Summit VIP ticket and get access to the first-ever national gathering of hemp-focused investors, founders and CEO’s. This special insider’s view receives VIP access to the Hemp Summit as well as an exclusive invite to the Game Changers VIP Party. Be sure to stay for the networking event in the CoHempCo Lounge from 5-6 pm hosted by the National Hemp Association.

On Saturday, Expo attendees can get the latest on eco-friendly products and consumer trends and learn about key topics in the industry like legislation, seed certification, nutrition and wellness and much more.. Early bird tickets are $15 through March 21st online and include several “hands-on-hemp” workshops, art shows and a stylish and sustainable Hemp Fashion show brought to you by EnviroTextiles.

NoCo Hemp Expo is bringing together hemp companies and entrepreneurs from all around the globe, including Spain, Canada, China, Holland, Mexico, Ukraine and more. With over 100 vendors and exhibitors participating daily and an impressive list of experts and speakers, NoCo3 is the place to be for those who are interested in learning more about the thriving hemp market. Witness the latest innovations in industrial hemp and hemp fiber from its use in eco-friendly fashion to energy storage used to create sustainable, long-lasting super-capacitors.

According to a recent article, “One of the battery’s most impressive features is its ability to discharge energy very quickly, which could drastically cut down charging times. You could recharge the device you’re reading this article on in seconds.”

“Hemp is a better choice, because graphene is far more expensive to synthesize, and hemp is a sturdy, renewable resource that can flourish in a range of climates.”1

Author and Keynote Speaker at NoCo3 Doug Fine describes a hemp super-capacitor as “the kind of technology that’s going to allow a solar-powered ranch like mine to charge a week’s worth of energy from an hour of sunlight.”2

Get your hands on hemp and its infinite possibilities at the third annual NoCo Hemp Expo! Skip the lines and save by purchasing your tickets here in advance. Growth Tickets are available for those who want to support the GROWTH of the hemp industry which includes a VIP hemp tote bag loaded with the coolest hemp products from our sponsors and vendors.

NoCo3 offers direct insight into the advocates, companies, and entrepreneurs fueling the change in the market today. Check out the full list of vendors at NoCo Hemp Expo 2016 and stand with hemp to harness a brighter future for a more sustainable America.

1 Ebeling, Paul. “Energy Breakthrough, A Supercapacitor Battery Made From Hemp | Live Trading News.” Live Trading News. HeffX, 22 Aug. 2014. Web. 02 Mar. 2016.

2 Fine, Doug. “Hemp Is on Its Way to Your Car Battery and Many Things You Haven’t Yet Imagined.” The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 22` Oct. 14. Web. 02 Mar. 2016.

About NoCo Hemp Expo, Colorado Hemp Company and TreeFreeHemp

WAFBA LLC (We Are For Better Alternatives) is home to the NoCo Hemp Expo, TreeFreeHemp and Colorado Hemp Company located in Loveland, Colorado and operating

since 2012. Areas of focus include product and brand development, marketing, printing, production, events and advocacy.

###

Press Contact:

Abbie Marks

(985) 518-7493

abbie@nocohempexpo.com

March 3, 2016

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