Sullivan Community College granted hemp research permit

LOCH SHELDRAKE – The state has granted SUNY Sullivan a research permit under the state’s Industrial Hemp Agricultural Pilot program.
The college, in partnership with The Center for Discovery, will focus research on the effects of certain growing practices on hemp cultivation, and the key properties of cannabidiol extracted from the harvested plants, which has been shown to have important medical benefits, state officials said.
The Center for Discovery treats individuals with complex disabilities and employs models of healthcare, including biodynamically-grown food with medical and clinical care.
Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Luis Alvarez said industrial hemp “is becoming a critical player in the agricultural industry and through the state’s Industrial Hemp Pilot Program, Sullivan County will play a major role in exploring new ways to bring this crop to its full economic potential.”
The partnership between SUNY Sullivan and The Center for Discovery “will help farmers and researchers find new ways to cultivate this crop and explore opportunities to strengthen the region’s agricultural economy,” Alvarez said.