Concern and Externalities Associated with Locating Hemp Production and Processing Facilities

The legalization of hemp in the United States (U.S.) has created increased interest from agricultural and non-agricultural entities seeking to establish/expand hemp production and processing. As these entities begin to locate their production and processing operations, there is a potential for nearby residents to have concerns about these efforts. Using an online survey of residents from the southeastern U.S., concern levels and potential externalities associated with hemp production and processing were evaluated. Results show a majority of residents are concerned about hemp production and processing locating nearby with the externalities varying from the potential for illegal activity to environmental concerns.