Let's Talk Hemp

Tag: research

  • Is CBD Isolate Losing Its Appeal?

    Is CBD Isolate Losing Its Appeal?

    By Tim Gordon, Chief Science Officer, Functional Remedies

    As full-spectrum hemp products are being recognized as the best options for our bodies, CBD and cannabinoid isolate products are trending differently. In the ever changing cannabis industry, we have witnessed the rise and fall of isolated cannabinoid products. In 2015, at the start of the legal hemp industry, the emerging CBD market began to take hold. Through 2016 and into 2017, isolated CBD was selling for upwards of $5,000 per kilogram and the market was on the rise. CBD extraction companies were setting up shop across the country in hopes of joining the emerging industry and seeing large financial returns.

    At the same time, multiple companies in the pharmacopeia world were conducting research on the CBD molecule. The research being conducted was specific to certain conditions or ailments but within that specific research, between the lines, were some very telling facts about how CBD works and its potential toxic and damaging effects on the body.

    As the CBD industry entered into its third and fourth years of maturity in the United States, the tell-tale signs of an industry on the brink self-imploding began to rise. The commoditization of CBD began to show itself across the country. Large CBD companies began massive layoffs, farmers were told their contracts could not be fulfilled, some companies began closing and filing for bankruptcy. We watched as the market flooded with product and the price began falling below $1,000 per kilogram for CBD isolate.

    Research in the world of pharma continued to thrive with more details as to potential side effects of a CBD molecule. GW Pharma’s research has been used in reference by the FDA on its findings of their CBD-based drug Epidiolex, which showed promising signs for certain disorders but also potentially compromising signs of liver toxicity and reproductive issues.

    As the hemp-cannabis industry continues into its fifth year of growth, many factors will influence its further development. Regulations from the USDA and multiple federal agencies will be put into place. Pharma will continue research and development with isolated CBD and mixed isolated cannabinoid products. More education as to why CBD alone is not the best for our bodies will emerge. Where that will leave CBD extraction and isolate companies is unknown.

    Tim Gordon has the honor of serving as founder and Chief Science Officer for Colorado-based Functional Remedies, a leading manufacturer of hemp-based cannabinoid products in the United States.

    Photo Credit: Unsplash

    Hemp and cannabinoid expert Tim Gordon, founder and Chief Science Officer of Functional Remedies, explains why full spectrum cannabinoid products may be safer – and sell better – than products made from CBD isolate.

    News Briefs

    USDA Issues Report on Economic Viability of Hemp

    By USDA

    Meet the Hardest Working Plant on the Planet

    By Natural Awakenings

    Renewable Hemp-based Packaging Finds New Uses

    By Merry Jane

    Hemp, Cannabis Businesses Bolster Real Estate Market

    By UPI

    Pre-Order Your Copy of Doug Fine’s New Book, American Hemp Farmer in Time for NoCo Hemp Expo!

    American Hemp Farmer, the sixth book from author Doug Fine, follows the rigors and pleasures of an entire hemp season from soil preparation and genetics acquisition through harvest and regenerative marketing. It’s immersive. It’s wildly funny. The follow up to Doug Fine’s bestselling Hemp Bound, American Hemp Farmer pulls no punches, and because it is written by an actual hemp farmer and entrepreneur, it tells you what you need to know if you want to join the hemp renaissance.

    “As a hempcrete homeowner, American Hemp Farmer is the must-read book on hemp I’m proud to keep on my shelf. Someday we may even see NBA arenas built from hemp. But for now, Doug should be prepared to lose more money at the poker table that sits on the hemp floor in my hemp-paneled card room.” – Don Nelson, NBA Hall of Fame Inductee

    Pre-order American Hemp Farmer now. Use code EXPO and you can also pick up your copy, signed by Doug Fine, at the upcoming NoCo Hemp Expo, March 26-28, 2020, in Denver.

    Pre-Order American Hemp Farmer Here
    https://www.tatteredcover.com/pre-order-american-hemp-farmer

  • 2nd Annual Hemp Symposium Brings Hemp Education, Economics, and Environmental Information to the San Luis Valley

    2nd Annual Hemp Symposium Brings Hemp Education, Economics, and Environmental Information to the San Luis Valley

    Education is Power! Come network and learn from likeminded individuals in the hemp industry.

    As the hemp industry further demonstrates its potential to create new job markets, revolutionize our economy, and prove to be both medically and environmentally beneficial, Colorado universities are realizing the need to incorporate hemp into higher education.

    The Second Annual San Luis Valley (SLV) Hemp Symposium will take place on Friday, November 10, on the Adams State University (ASU) campus in Alamosa, Colorado. This year’s symposium features Let’s Talk Hemp, an all-day speaker series and exhibitor expo. The symposium covers a wide range of hemp topics including legislation and regulation, best farming practices, technology, hemp foods & nutrition and more. Panel members include industry experts and entrepreneurs such as, Tim Gordon and Russell Orsbourne from International Hemp Solution’s, Tom Dermody from Industrial Hemp Research Foundation, Alan Parsons from Power Zone and Morris Beegle of Colorado Hemp Company.

    Symposium host, ASU, illustrates the importance of having education and research grow simultaneously with infrastructure. Having launched their Industrial Hemp Initiative this July, ASU aims to create an SLV Viable Hemp Seed Program and to develop a large-scale, hemp-based economy in the San Luis Valley. The initiative focuses on what ASU President, Beverlee J. McClure, calls the four E’s: Economy, Environment, Education, and Entrepreneurship.

    Tickets are an affordable $10, which includes the Let’s Talk Hemp speaker series, workshops, mini-hemp expo and more.  Tickets are easily purchased on-line via the SLV Hemp Symposium TICKET SALES webpage.  For more information visit the HempEvents.org website.  Come join the movement while becoming educated by some of the industry leaders.

     

  • 4th Annual Hemp Harvest Party!

    4th Annual Hemp Harvest Party!

    After 4 years the US hemp industry is finally starting to lose its baby-fat… Look how many more farmers and how many more acres of hemp were grown in Colorado and across the U.S. in just a single year!

    At the 4th Annual Hemp Harvest Party, on Saturday, October 14th you can experience the living U.S. hemp movement in action, presented by Lilu’s Garden.

    Join industry leaders CoHempCo and Colorado Hemp Project as they host at the Oak Room at Oskar Blues Brewery in Longmont, CO, from 8pm-midnight to celebrate “an industry of trail blazers and leaders who have worked hard to accelerate the progress made during this year’s planting, growing and harvesting season.”

    Growers, processors, distributors, and even users are all pioneers in the hemp movement. Enjoy live entertainment with big screen hemp movies, network with hemp enthusiasts, and satisfy in amazing Oskar Blues beer flavors, hemp mulled wines, whiskey and vodka. Grab a special hemp cappuccino or latte from SteepFuze, and savor tasty hemp baklava desserts from Satya Creative.

    Meet Chef Kent of Z-Catering who will be creating special hemp-harvested goodies for purchase, featuring “Hemp Rocks” a German-style krautburger made with farm-to-fork fresh veggies and meats, spiced with a hemp-infusion, and topped with Colorado Hemp Company’s Hemp Green Chili. (Vegan and GF Options)

    The hemp industry itself is gaining weight quickly with more consistent planting of stable genetics; its firming-up muscle from another season of harvesting and processing; and more and more knowledge and experiences are gained and shared each day.

    The Oak Room is a wonderfully-warm event space with lots of tall solid tables, leather cushion booths, and high brewery ceilings. Purchase tickets today as this event is always a lot of fun and generally sells out!

    Right now, we are all pioneers in the movement. We are all leaders in our own individual hemp projects. We all have something to offer.

    Come celebrate and encourage each other as equals in the larger hemp community. For right now, the success of the community depends not on just one person, but on the endurance of all its members.

    Thomas Ivory, Jr.

  • THC-Limits for Hemp Hurt the Industry and the Environment

    THC-Limits for Hemp Hurt the Industry and the Environment

    Hemp is arguably the most versatile plant on the planet. It is well documented that hemp can be used to make things like paper and rope, but hemp can also do so much more.

    The hemp plant can be used to make fuel in the form of bio-diesel. It can also be used to make medicine. A team of scientists even built a super-capacitor out of hemp. A super-capacitor is an energy storage device, like a battery.

    Hemp has been prohibited in the United States since 1937, but a 2014 Farm Bill provided for exceptions in states that have legalized hemp for research and/or pilot program purposes.

    To date, 31 states have passed such laws according to the organization Vote Hemp. Hemp production has taken off in many states, with states like Kentucky nearly tripling production in 2017 (a total of 12,800 acres).

    The spread of hemp reform has been paralleled by an increase in public awareness about the wellness benefits of cannabidiol (CBD), which is found in abundance in hemp plants.

    Read the full article here

  • NoCo Hemp Expo Takes #LetsTalkHemp Speaker Series on Tour

    NoCo Hemp Expo Takes #LetsTalkHemp Speaker Series on Tour

    http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/noco-hemp-expo-takes-letstalkhemp-speaker-series-on-tour-795787.htm

    Cannabis-hemp education takes to the road with a stop in Hawaii

    Loveland, CO — (ReleaseWire) — 04/18/2017 — Looking for ways to stay in the know about cannabis-hemp? We’ve got you covered with the NoCo Hemp Expo #LetsTalkHemp Speaker Series hitting the road over the coming weeks and months. Our team will be traveling to different areas of the country to spread the message of cannabis-hemp through information, education, advocacy, and activism.

    First stop, the The Kaya Festival in Miami, FL takes place Saturday April 22, 2017 with an all-day, star-filled musical event featuring; The Marley Brothers, Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, Sean Paul and more. The Kaya Fest will be hosting a free, educational symposium on April 21st where experts from around the globe will talk on Education Before Recreation with focus on creating public awareness on the many uses of the cannabis plant. NoCo Hemp Expo founder Morris Beegle and Program Director Preston Whitfield will both participate in this years symposium.

    Next stop, Hollywood, California for The Cannabis Health Summit. Known as the “TED talks of cannabis”, The Cannabis Health Summit, produced by Green Flower Media, will have a worldwide Live Stream event on May 5-6, 2017. The Summit features leading experts, doctors, researchers, scientists, and celebrities who will give compelling, short talks about today’s most important cannabis and health related topics.

    Over 39,000+ people tuned in to watch the 2016 Summit and this year is expected to have over 75,000+ people to join in from over 100 different countries for the live stream.
    If you’re looking for a reason to visit Hawaii, the Hawaii Hemp Conference is a great reason to travel! June 9-11th the NoCo Hemp Expo takes the show to Hilo, Hawaii. The mini-expo and educational event will feature expert speakers and collaboration pertaining to all things industrial hemp. This first-time event will be informative and beneficial for anyone interested in the evolving hemp industry locally, nationally and globally.

    Want to come to the western slope and learn about hemp? Here is your opportunity. Hemp on the Slope, taking place on July 22, 2017, will make a return to Salt Creek Ranch in Collbran, Colorado for it’s second year. It will be filled with even more workshops, industry panels, networking, farming info, live music, community and fun. Colorado Hemp Company and Salt Creek Hemp Company have joined forces to produce this lively event and we are looking forward seeing new faces this year.

    From August 4-6th you can catch Colorado Hemp companies and more at the Arise Music Festival. If you’ve never been to Arise, you should consider attending. This year, the NoCo Hemp Village will feature many different hemp vendors, awesome products and topics of interest for all attendees and lovers of community and music.

    Keep up-to-date with future hemp events, festivals and collaborative programming Colorado Hemp Company and NoCo Hemp Expo are participating in at HempEvents.org.About WAFBA LLCWAFBA 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, hemp events and advocacy. Join us on http://www.facebook.com/ColoradoHemp “>Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.

    Media Relations Contact
    Morris Beegle Founder
    720-354-2816
    970-581-5049
    http://www.coloradohempcompany.com

  • NoCo Hemp Expo showcases region as leader in hemp industry

    NoCo Hemp Expo showcases region as leader in hemp industry

    By Jensen Werley — 

    LOVELAND  — The NoCo Hemp Expo returns this weekend and will host feature some of the first U.S.-built equipment necessary for the fledgling industry.

    The festival will take place Friday and Saturday, March 31 and April 1, at The Ranch Events Complex in Loveland.

    About 4,000 people are expected to come to the fourth annual event, Morris Beegle, festival organizer and founder of Colorado Hemp Co., told BizWest.

    In addition to being larger than last year — about 3,000 people came in 2016, Beegle said — a new feature this year will be a tent designated for hemp artists and activists.

    Another new addition will be a showcase for hemp equipment, including some of the first production equipment built in the United States.

    The GrassHopper, made by Power Zone Equipment, collects and stores profitable hemp. It is the first of its kind to be built stateside — in Center, Colo. — and is directly attributed to Colorado’s growing hemp industry.

    Having agricultural equipment at the Expo will be a chance to showcase innovations in agriculture because of hemp.

    “Farming equipment and technology is something we have to figure out as a fledgling industry,” Beegle said. “It’s exciting to have a company like Power Zone, with the ability to make most anything, looking for new opportunities and excited about hemp.”

    Beegle said as this type of farming grows, the processing side will take off, so farmers have a place where they can bring their crop and have it processed.

    Because Amendment 64 opened the door for hemp production when it legalized recreational marijuana use in Colorado, the state is a leader in the farming practice, hence the need for and growth of events like the Hemp Expo.

    “Colorado is a leader in industrial hemp now,” Beegle said. “Amendment 64 allowed us to get a head start on everyone else. It’s a natural draw to Colorado and brings attention to North Colorado. This area has really embraced hemp.”

    Registration for the event is available here.

  • Spiral Zucchini “Spaghetti” and Hemp Oil-Basil Pesto Combine for a Super Nutritious, Super Tasty Vegetarian Dish

    Spiral Zucchini “Spaghetti” and Hemp Oil-Basil Pesto Combine for a Super Nutritious, Super Tasty Vegetarian Dish

  • A Conversation with the Industrial Hemp Research Foundation

    A Conversation with the Industrial Hemp Research Foundation

    Official Nonprofit Beneficiary of the NoCo Hemp Expo 4

    The task of reestablishing industrial hemp farming does not happen in a vacuum. While the farmers and the producers do the hard work of cultivating and bringing hemp to the masses, just as essential are those in the background helping to create the framework that the burgeoning hemp industry will sit upon. The Industrial Hemp Research Foundation (IHRF) is one such organization.

    The IHRF was created after the passage of the 2014 Farm Bill and the ensuing mandate to allow industrial hemp for research cultivation. By facilitating research and development at academic institutions IHRF supports growing the hemp industry to an industrial scale.

    Since becoming Executive Director a year ago, Tom Dermody has focused on the fundamental issue of getting funding for IHRF members and researchers. Universities were happy to talk about hemp, he explained, but the internal protocols were not yet there within the institutions to facilitate the actual research. Researchers had great ideas but were unwilling to pursue proposals if they didn’t think they would end up being viable.

    Dermody and the board started at the basic level by crafting policies such as for accepting research materials from third party suppliers. By diligently crafting protocols that abide by federal finance laws and that are attractive to private enterprise, IHRF has helped universities feel comfortable opening their facilities to hemp research. Instead of reinventing the wheel, IHRF is eager to take many existing protocols from the traditional farm industry and extrapolate them to hemp.

    Of utmost importance in this process was educating school administrations that hemp is not marijuana, that the farm bill mandates universities to help facilitate research of hemp, and that doing so will not compromise their federal funding. Universities are essential in helping to develop consistent and scalable hemp plants to be used in large scale fiber, replacement plastics, and food science and thus moving the industry forward.

    IHRF now has formal relationships with Colorado State University Fort Collins and Pueblo campuses, and University of Colorado Boulder and is working with them to procure funding, recruit faculty, and manage the product development process. They also are assisting projects in various capacities at universities from California to Maine.

    Excitingly, through this development and research, Dermody believes the hemp industry will have consistent, scalable material in the next 2-3 years. By learning from the processes in place in Canada for seeds and in Australia and Asia for fiber the United States can piggyback on their success and take the industry to the next level.

    While IHRF is not a political organization, Dermody says, “I do believe that the research IHRF supports over the coming years will be the fodder that further justifies the efficacy of hemp derived products to politicians, consumers and interest groups alike.”

    To support the work IHRF is doing to further hemp research stop by and see them at the Innovation Tent at the Expo or visit their website at www.theihrfoundation.com to learn more about becoming a volunteer and supporting member. And of course, be sure to back the industry with your dollars by supporting hemp growers and product producers. Use hemp products, encourage friends and family to do so, and go online to search for new and innovative hemp items to try.

    The Industrial Hemp Research Foundation is the official nonprofit beneficiary of the 2017 NoCo Hemp Expo and is sponsoring the Seeds of Innovation speaker series in the Hemp Summit Room all day on Saturday. Tom Dermody will be on the Seeds of Innovation panel discussion 2:30-3:20 on Saturday as well.

    Laurie Hanselmann is a writer, nonprofit management guru, and lover of the natural world. She enjoys exploring how to find more meaning and connection in her life as a ‘Type B’ person through self improvement and productivity hacks. You can find her at persistentlybetter.com.

  • NoCo Hemp Expo 4 Confirms Programming Details for March 31-April 1 Event

    NoCo Hemp Expo 4 Confirms Programming Details for March 31-April 1 Event

    Friday Industry Day and Saturday Public Sessions cover the full scope of the hemp industry.

    Loveland, CO — (ReleaseWire) — 03/15/2017 –The NoCo Hemp Expo, the largest hemp-centric event in the U.S., has announced programming details for this year’s event on March 30 and April 1 at The Ranch Events Complex off I-25 in Loveland, Colorado. A complete schedule of this year’s panels, presentations, workshops, and more, presented by some of the leading hemp experts from around the world, can be found at http://nocohempexpo.com/2017-schedule/. A complete list of presenters who will share their industry knowledge is at http://nocohempexpo.com/speakers/.

    “We are excited to have so many exceptional thought-leaders this year to talk hemp, natural products, sustainability, regenerative agriculture, health and wellness, economics, and the environment — everything that hemp encapsulates,” said NoCo Hemp Expo Founder Morris Beegle.

    No matter what area of the hemp industry attendees are interested in, they can choose from two full days of programming from the Let’s Talk Hemp stage and in the Hemp Summit Room, the Workshop tent and the Artists and Activists tent. Each offers engaging sessions from stakeholders and innovators on the leading edge of the industrial hemp industry.

    Friday sessions from 10am to 6pm focus on the needs and concerns of those in the industry. The opening keynote for the Hemp Summit is former CIA Director Jim Woolsey. From 2pm to 5pm, the Cannabis Professional Advancement Series covers the latest in legal and regulatory issues. Other industry sessions include discussions on investing; supply chain; policy, legislation and regulations; processing and infrastructure; marketing and distribution; and more.

    Saturday the Expo opens its doors to the public from 10am to 6pm, with consumer and general public oriented sessions that include Hemp 101, hemp and the family farm, athletes and cannabinoids, veterans/family/kids and cannabis, women in hemp, and a highly entertaining keynote from hemp evangelist and author Doug Fine. Hands-on workshops include demonstrations on using hemp to build and insulate, make paper, weave, cook with, and roast and infuse coffee.

    For tickets to the Expo and access to the full range of programming during Friday’s Industry Day and Saturday’s public events, visit http://nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/.

    Major sponsors of NoCo Hemp Expo 4 include CBDRx, offering vertically integrated hemp extract services to the industry; EnerHealth, offering hemp-based supplements and nutraceuticals; and Sub Zero Extracts/Nature’s Love, offering extraction technology to the industry.

    About NoCo Hemp Expo 4, 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.

    Learn more at NocoHempExpo.com, and find us on Facebook and Twitter.

  • NoCo Hemp Expo 4 Announces Artists & Activists Tent, Concert and After Party Details

    NoCo Hemp Expo 4 Announces Artists & Activists Tent, Concert and After Party Details

    Thursday and Saturday night concerts bookend two full days of programming designed specifically for artists and activists

    Marco Benevento

    Loveland, CO – The NoCo Hemp Expo, the largest hemp-centric event in the U.S., has announced details of its opening and closing concert events, as well as programming highlights from the Bluebird Botanicals Artists & Activists Tent. Thursday night’s kickoff concert (March 30th) is at the Aggie Theater in Fort Collins. Saturday night’s (April 1st) Honor the Earth after-Expo concert is at Avogadro’s Number in Fort Collins. The Artists & Activist Tent will be part of the Expo on March 31 and April 1 at the Ranch Events Complex located off I25 in Loveland, CO.

    “Particularly given the current political climate and the long-standing bias at the federal level against hemp, the involvement and passion of the public through art and activism has been and is still vital to the cause of advancing the industry,” said NoCo Hemp Expo Founder Morris Beegle. “We have more work to do, and we want to educate and involve more people, as well as recognize and celebrate the successes and accomplishments we’ve achieved to this point in time.”

    Musketeer Gripweed

    The NoCo Hemp Expo 4 kickoff concert at the Aggie Theater is Thursday, March 30 at 204 S College Avenue. Doors open at 8:00 pm, with Colorado favorites Musketeer Gripweed kicking things off at 9:00 pm, followed by the adventurous, uncompromising and inspiring Marco Benevento takes the stage at 10:45 pm. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 day of show at ticketfly.com.

    On March 31 and April 1 at the Expo arena, visit the Artists and Activists Tent sponsored by Bluebird Botanicals on Friday from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Tickets to the Expo and access to the Artists & Activists Tent, can be found online at nocohempexpo.com/ticket-sales/.

    Friday’s Featured Segment:
    2:30-5:30 pm – Cannabinoid Conversations Q&A Open Forum:
    A lively discussion with industry experts on growing hemp for high cannabinoid profiles,
    lab testing, pesticides, extraction processes, manufacturing methods, regulations, compliance, quality control, pricing, keeping it craft/going industrial, lobbying, legislation, and more.

    Colony Funk

    Saturday Highlights:
    10:00-10:15 am – Gemma Ra Star – Earth Blessing and Song
    10:15-11:00 am – Marcus Ginon, RoseBud White Plume – First Nation / Water Protectors 12:00-12:30 pm – Marc Ross – Corporate Responsibility and Community Engagement 12:30-1:00 pm – Steve Hoffman – Hemp, Regenerative Agriculture and Climate Change 1:30-2:00 pm – Nikki Florio – Buds and Bees: How Hemp Helps Save Pollinators 3:30-4:00 pm – Ed Lehrburger – Biorefining the Future
    Music throughout the day by Dave Beegle with special guests including Aviva Vuvuzela.

    Saturday night’s Honor the Earth Post-Expo Concert is at Avogadro’s Number from 8:00 pm to 1:00 am. Colony Funk will perform with special guests, including Aviva Vuvuzela from Aviva and the Flying Penguins. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Tickets for the after-Expo concert can be found at avogadros.com.
    Major sponsors of NoCo Hemp Expo 4 include CBDRx, offering vertically integrated hemp extract services to the industry; EnerHealth, offering hemp-based supplements and nutraceuticals; and Sub Zero Extracts/Nature’s Love, offering extraction technology to the industry. 

  • Road to NoCo Starts Now

    Road to NoCo Starts Now

    By Morris Beegle
    Photo credit: Margaret MacKenzie

    Howdy folks, welcome to my first blog in a very long time. We’re putting the final touches on launching registration for the 4th annual NoCo Hemp Expo and I thought it would be a good time to reflect back on what has transpired since the beginning of April.  For those of you that attended NoCo3, you know it was pretty epic, and some might say Pure-Hemp-Epicness! One thing it was for sure, was an excellent gathering of smart, passionate, forward-thinking individuals who are out there fighting the good fight. The movement is alive and we are now in the final days of hemp and cannabis prohibition.  How the chips fall over the coming months and years is not for certain, but what we can say for sure is that prohibition as we’ve come to know it, is almost finished. And it’s our job, all of ours, to finish it. If we end up with a president Trump, disregard any and all predictions I make within this article. Prohibition will be the least of our worries.

    Since NoCo3, all things hemp have kicked into overdrive for farmers, processors, entrepreneurs, associations and ancillary businesses entering into this exciting industry. People and companies are committing serious time, energy, and capital into building business relationships and infrastructure to grow. We have been gathering at industry-specific functions locally and nationally, working together state by state to pass meaningful legislation, all the while pushing Washington DC to pay a little bit of attention to our industry. We’ve had missteps along the way, we’ve had little victories and big victories, DEA, FDA and USDA interference to varying degrees, and we have more work to do.

    Speaking of industry gatherings, this summer kicked off with a slew of Hemp History Week events followed up in July with the Science of Industrial Hemp Conference in Denver and Hemp On The Slope in Collbran, CO. August gave us The NoCo Hemp Village at the Arise Music Festival with Ziggy Marley, Jurassic 5, Papadosio and 100 other acts at one of the top-conscious festivals anywhere. If you’ve attended Arise you know what I’m talking about, and if you haven’t, you need to attend. This last week from September 18-20, the 23rd Annual Hemp Industries Association Conference came to Westminster, CO and provided a truly exceptional forum for industry professionals to interact and do business. There was a nice blend of old school and new school hempsters participating in panels and presentations, exhibiting, networking, and having fun. The way it should be.

    The Road to NoCo begins early October with the launch of sponsor and exhibitor registration.  We’re truly excited for NoCo4 which takes place again in Loveland at The Ranch Events complex on March 31-April 1, 2017.

    Moving on, Friday October 14th we celebrate with the 3rd annual Hemp Harvest Party happening at Globe Hall in Denver. This is an industry focused networking party and concert, featuring great Colorado acts including the Taylor Scott Band with special guest Dave Beegle, Rob Drabkin and Rob Trueblood.  We pay homage to hemp farmers around the state and country for the work and progress they’ve done throughout the 2016 growing season.

    Late October brings us to the 3rd Annual Colorado Hemp Symposium and Legislative Workshop on October 26th in Loveland.  This event is hosted by Congressman Jared Polis and more information can be found at Here.

    In November we head on the road to Adams State University in Alamosa for the inaugural San Luis Valley (SLV) Hemp Symposium taking place on Saturday November 5th. This is a smaller trade show and conference that will feature 25-35 hemp companies with the educational LET’S TALK HEMP sessions going on throughout the day. Please contact us if you are interested in joining us. More information on this event can be found at www.slvhempsymposium.com.

    That’s it for now. I hope to start blogging a little more frequently going forward and share information that seems to get lost along the way. Feel free to reach out to me at hemp@coloradohempcompany.com with any comments, thoughts, or blog topic suggestions.  Thanks for reading.

  • NoCo founder envisions ‘an industry that will be unstoppable’

    NoCo founder envisions ‘an industry that will be unstoppable’

    INTERVIEW: MORRIS BEEGLE
    Founder & Owner
    Colorado Hemp Company

    Morris Beegle spent more than 20 years in the American entertainment industry before turning his attention to the growing U.S. market for ecological, sustainable products. He is the founder and owner of the Colorado Hemp Company (CHC), organizer of NoCo Expo, one of the premier U.S.-based hemp industry trade shows, which recently held its third annual Expo. CHC also offers a wide range of marketing, product and brand development services for hemp-based producers and retailers. Morris is on the business advisory council of the (U.S.) National Hemp Association.

    Read the full article here at Hemptoday.com

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

    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

  • The Rebirth of Industrial Hemp:  Processing and Bio-refineries 

    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.

    industrial-hemp-blog
    (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.

     

  • The Stage is Set! Industrial Hemp Expo Unites Global Participants 

    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 1st 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.Inline image 1

     

    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 

  • 3rd Annual NoCo Hemp Expo to Host Hemp Investment Summit

    3rd Annual NoCo Hemp Expo to Host Hemp Investment Summit

    Presented by: The Hemp Business Journal

    Tickets are on sale now​​ for the largest hemp‐centric Trade Show and Conference in North America. With over 100 exhibitors, 50+ speakers and industry experts, 2016 is gearing up to be one of the most important years in history for the industrial hemp movement.

    April 1‐2 at The Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, CO will feature an assortment of fun‐filled workshops and program add‐ons including “Let’s Talk Hemp” and “The Hemp Investment Summit” presented by the ​The Hemp Business Journal.​

    “We are excited to have the first‐ever nationally hemp‐focused Investment Summit as part of our conference. Our partners at The Hemp Business Journal and ​Business Catapult​ are bringing together the investment sector and investment ready companies throughout the hemp industry with the potential for funding right off the expo floor.”

    —Morris Beegle, ​Founder @ NoCo Hemp Expo

    The investment summit marks a significant shift toward entrepreneurship and professional development in the hemp industry. Access is strictly limited to 65 attendees, so click ​here​ to reserve your VIP ticket today or to register as a founder or accredited investor.

    “All the World’s a Stage,” says Morris, “ and in the Hemp world today, there is no bigger stage than The NoCo Hemp Expo. “

    Hemp advocates, business leaders, state officials, and educators will assemble together for a weekend of education, entertainment, innovation, commerce, and All Things Hemp!

    Invest in progress this spring by attending the third annual NoCo Hemp Expo and join in the excitement of this emerging industry.

    Abbie Marks
    On The Mark PR
    (985) 518-7493
    abbiemarkswriting@gmail.com

  • Colorado Hemp Company Announces 3rd Annual NoCo Hemp Expo in Loveland, CO

    Colorado Hemp Company Announces 3rd Annual NoCo Hemp Expo in Loveland, CO

    Unveiling the world of industrial and nutritional hemp.

    Presented by: CBDrx

    Loveland, Colorado—December 14, 2015—The Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, Colorado will host the 3rd Annual NoCo Hemp Expo on April 1-2, 2016.  The expo will bring together what is bound to be the largest mix of Hempsters under one roof for two spectacular days of hemp education, workshops and hemp-based products.

    Sponsors include a list of nationally-renowned hemp businesses like Colorado’s own organic farming and full-spectrum concentrate company CBDrx along with new and emerging businesses like The Hemp Business Journal, PureHemp Technology, Colorado Hemp Project, and The Fay Farm. Hemp advocates will also be taking stage this year including the National Hemp Association, Vote Hemp, Hemp Industries Association and many more.

    “The energy, passion, and excitement that emerged from NoCo Hemp Expo the past two years has been very inspiring. Our goal in 2016, is to duplicate and amplify that intensity, and I believe we already have.” —Morris Beegle, Founder @ NoCo Hemp Expo

    The 2016 Expo and trade show has been forced to expand in size to 36,000 square feet, two full days and that’s not the only game-changer. Attendees can look forward to 100+ exhibitors, expanded educational series with over 50 industry speakers and an assortment of hemp-related topics and workshops, including this year’s Hemp Investor Summit.

    Visit www.nocohempexpo.com to guarantee your entry to the most important hemp-centric trade show and expo in the U.S. and join Colorado Hemp Company in the excitement of unveiling the world of industrial and nutritional hemp.
    Press Contact:
    Abbie Marks | 985.518.7493
    abbie@nocohempexpo.com

  • Colorado Companies Head to Washington DC for Hemp on the Hill

    Colorado Companies Head to Washington DC for Hemp on the Hill

    Jared PolisCongressman Jared Polis (CO.2) will host the “Industrial Hemp Expo and Conversation” on Tuesday, February 2, 2016 on Capitol Hill. The Expo will feature key industry speakers, leading hemp companies, and state and federal officials who are coming together to discuss hemp and its remarkable industrial advancements in recent years.

    Colorado, Kentucky, Oregon, Tennessee, Indiana, Virginia, and North Carolina have become leaders in the hemp movement in recent years making progress at the state level by taking advantage of federal legalization opportuni
    ties provided in the 2014 Farm Bill.

    These states make up the heart of the hemp industry and are host to some of the most amazing individuals working hard to legitimize and fully legalize industrial hemp on the federal level.

    According to The Hemp Business Journal, market research puts the U.S. hemp industry at approximately $500 million in sales for year ending 2014. Market research also suggests a nearly $2 billion hemp industry by 2020.

    “Hemp is an agricultural crop that can benefit local economies across the country, and a crop that never should have been illegal in the first place. Hemp is not a drug, and should have zero association or interference from the DEA or FDA.” —Morris Beegle, Founder @ Colorado Hemp Company and The NoCo Hemp Expo.

    “I’m looking forward to joining my fellow hemp constituents in Washington DC at Hemp on the Hill,” says Beegle, “and convincing members of Congress to finally jump on board and do the right thing, pull hemp completely off of the controlled substances list.“

    Colorado Hemp Company joins the expo in February along with National Hemp Association, Evo Hemp and renowned hemp experts like Barbara Filippone at EnviroTextiles and Author Doug Fine who have worked to spearhead the legalization of hemp in Colorado and nationwide.

    Join Congressman Polis and Colorado Hemp Company at Rayburn Foyer in Washington DC and meet the faces of the hemp industry at our nation’s capital.

    WHAT:  “Industrial Hemp Expo and Conversation on The Hill”

    WHO: Senator Ron Wyden (OR),
    Congressman Earl Blumenauer (OR.3)
    Congressman Thomas Massie (KY.4)
    Colorado Hemp Co. and NoCo Hemp Expo – Morris Beegle, Founder
    Evo Hemp – Ari Sherman, President
    Hemp Road Show and Moonrise Extracts – Rick Trojan, Owner
    National Hemp Association – Samantha Walsh, Board of Directors
    Envirotextiles – Barbara Filippone, President
    Hemp Industries Association – Eric Steenstra – Executive Director
    Doug Fine – Author and Investigative Journalist
    Coach Freddie – iHemp Revolution Podcast
    Edgar Winters – Oregon Farmer
    Mike Bowman – Colorado 5th Gen. Hemp Farmer

    WHEN:  Tuesday, February 2, 2016
                       10 am – 2 pm

    WHERE: 1st Floor Rayburn HOB
    Rayburn Foyer, 45 Independence Ave. SW
    Washington D.C. 20515

    RSVP:              To RSVP for “Industrial Hemp Expo and Conversation on The Hill” and for the latest information about the key speakers presenting, please visit http://industrialhempexpo.eventbrite.com

    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.

    Abbie Marks
    On The Mark P.R
    abbiemarkswriting@gmail.com
    (985) 518-7493