Fueling Innovation and Boosting Environmental Resilience with Industrial Hemp (FIBER)

Climate-Smart Fiber Hemp: A Versatile Solution for Underserved Farmers, Climate Change Mitigation, and Emerging Markets

 

A field of industrial (fiber) hemp

 Partner with Us – Join the Movement!

We are seeking farmers to participate in our Climate-Smart Fiber Hemp initiative! If you are interested in growing industrial hemp and contributing to sustainable agriculture, take our [Farmer Survey] to get involved.  

 

Why Industrial Hemp?

Industrial hemp is a game-changing crop for sustainable agriculture. With rapid growth, high biomass yield, and carbon sequestration capabilities, it offers significant environmental benefits while opening doors to new market opportunities.

 

Our Study Focus

We are exploring industrial hemp’s role in:

Carbon Sequestration: Measuring how effectively hemp absorbs CO₂ compared to other crops.

Soil Health Enhancement: Studying hemp’s impact on soil organic matter, aeration, and erosion control.

Sustainable Biomass Use: Investigating hemp fiber and hurd applications in bio-based construction, bioplastics, and other carbon-negative industries.

Lifecycle Analysis: Assessing hemp’s overall environmental footprint and its contribution to greenhouse gas reduction.

Hemp’s Role in Sustainable Farming

Hemp is more than just a crop—it’s a powerful tool for regenerative agriculture. Our studies show that integrating hemp into crop rotation systems can:

🌱 Improve Soil Fertility: Reduces reliance on chemical inputs by fixing nutrients naturally.

🐛 Break Pest & Disease Cycles: Helps control soil-borne pests and weeds, reducing the need for pesticides.

🦠 Boost Microbial Activity: Enhances beneficial soil microbes, promoting nutrient cycling and healthier soils.

By incorporating hemp into their farming practices, growers can improve soil resilience, boost productivity, and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system.
Dr. Omondi in a field of fiber hemp

Be Part of the Future of Farming!

We are looking for dedicated growers to participate in our study and help shape the future of climate-smart agriculture!

Stay Connected!
📢 Sign up for research updates
📩 Contact the TSU Department of Agriculture for more information

 

 

TSU’s Legacy in Hemp Research

Since 2018, TSU has been at the forefront of hemp research, studying multiple cultivars to determine the best varieties for Tennessee farmers. Our team of soil scientists, geneticists, economists, and food scientists is developing innovative solutions, including hemp-based products and soil reclamation strategies.

 

Hemp and the 2018 Farm Bill

The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 legalized hemp cultivation, removed it from the DEA’s list of controlled substances, and established USDA oversight. This opened the door for U.S. hemp farmers to access USDA farm programs and new market opportunities.

Read more about Hemp Research at USDA>>