University Gets Federal Grant to Study Processed Hemp as Cattle Feed

Oregon State University has received a $299,950 federal U.S. Department of Agriculture grant to study feeding spent hemp biomass to cattle. The National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant aims to implement the safe use of hemp byproducts in livestock diets.

Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said the study and the potential to use the hemp biomass as cattle feed “add up to a potential big win for farmers and ranchers.”

“This OSU research will help to continue building the case for federal approval of hemp biomass on cattle farms, making a natural connection between two signature Oregon products – livestock and hemp.” – Wyden in a press release

Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) noted that hemp is one of Oregon’s “fastest-growing crops” and generates millions of dollars in revenue and reliable jobs in the state.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the results of OSU’s research into whether we can use spent hemp biomass as cattle feed, and will continue to work to secure the resources Oregonians need to keep leading the way for farmers across America,” Merkley said in a statement.

Last month, the agency awarded nearly $19,000 in hemp-focused agriculture grants to the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and Coexist Build, a private company.

The UPenn School of Veterinary Medicine grant is for the “development of sensitive method for analysis of cannabinoids in bovine serum and hemp seed samples,” it said in a press release. Coexist Build’s award focuses on “developing marketing strategy for agritourism highlighting regenerative, organic farm featuring hemp-based construction.”