Report: Hemp Production in West Virginia Nosedives 

Cultivation of industrial hemp in the open in West Virginia fell nearly 50% from 2021 to 2022, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data outlined by WBOY. In all, there were 65 acres of hemp planted in the open in the state in 2021; in 2022, that fell to 35 acres.  

The total area of hemp harvested in the state for all purposes also fell from 43 acres in 2021 to 30 acres in 2022, the report says. Hemp grown indoors or otherwise protected by a structure in West Virginia also saw a hit in yearly production, with total growing area falling from 21,371 square feet to 5,967 square feet from 2021 to 2022. 

The production of industrial floral hemp produced nationally also fell from an estimated 18,000 pounds in 2021 to an estimated 6,000 pounds last year – a 66% decrease, according to USDA data. The fall in production led to less crop yield, reduced price per pound, median yield, and total value, the report says. 

Nationwide, the USDA reports that the total open planting area for industrial hemp fell 50% while the value of hemp production fell 70%. The USDA did not offer an explanation for the dramatic decreases.