In 2015, the Minnesota Industrial Hemp Development Act (IHDA), Minnesota Statues 18K, became law. This allowed MDA to create an industrial hemp research pilot program in order to study the growth, cultivation, and marketing of industrial hemp. This law directed the commissioner of agriculture to make program rules, determine a fee structure, and perform testing and other regulatory activities. Industrial hemp is defined as Cannabis sativa L. that contains no more than 0.3% delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Pilot participants are required to provide reports to MDA regarding seed varieties planted, agronomic findings, and any processing, distribution and sales of products. The 2017 Hemp Pilot Program Report is now available. MDA obtained a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Schedule 1 Narcotic Research Registration in 2016. All hemp seed for the program is imported under MDA permits. In 2016, there were 6 pilot participants in Minnesota who grew industrial hemp in MDA's pilot program. It was a historic year, as we saw the harvest of approximately 40 acres of hemp in Minnesota for the first time since the 1950s. In 2017, there were 38 registered pilot participants, who grew 1,205 acres. Hemp Maze Minnesota is fully licensed. It is unlawful to remove any hemp from the pilot field. This includes seeds, leafs, or any other parts of the plants.