hemp...a crop that could one day be grown in fields across the state.

But to get to that point there are still numerous hurdles that need to be cleared, the most important making growing it legal.

The past few weeks brought two setbacks for those in favor of the government making the crop legal

That isn't deterring an area farmer.

Perry Olson has the story.

(Perry Olson - KX News) There is no doubt in Wayne Hauge's mind Hemp should be a crop that is part of North Dakota's future.

(Wayne Hauge - Rural Ray Farmer) "We have been growing peas, lentils...various crops over the years and I think hemp would work well and fit in well."


He feels so strongly about it mainly because of the potential he sees in it. Everything in front of him samples he requested is made from hemp...

(Wayne) "Much to my surprise about three weeks ago I got three really big boxes with various products from people across the US."


There were others we could have shown you as well...but...

(Wayne) "I can't provide lots of samples because these products taste too good and I've eaten lots of them!"


Oils, lotions, food, milk-like products...all made from hemp...and more.

(Wayne) "Silk and hemp is soft and very pretty looking. I can see some gal in three years making a prom dress out of this!"


But for that to happen in North Dakota, the federal government's stance on the crop must change. A lawsuit brought against the federal government was recently tossed out...and North Dakota's congressional delegation has decided not to pursue it in Congress...but Hauge still continues his push...looking to generate support.

(Wayne) "Hopefully at some point there will be demand in ND and in other states so we can join the rest of the industrialized world and start growing some of these products."


And he hopes North Dakota is a key player in doing just that.

(Wayne) "That is my goal I guess...to get people thinking about it."


Perry Olson, KX News. watch the video | save this article / add to your favorites list