Growing Green: The Role of Stewardship and Sustainable Practices in the Cannabis Industry

On April 5, 2024, CalPoly Humboldt held its first-ever symposium to focus on regenerative and sustainable practices and policies for the cannabis industry in California.

The Cannabis and Environmental Stewardship Symposium brought together regulators, environmental advocates, academics, and cannabis farmers to discuss current and prospective policy alternatives that encourage regenerative cannabis farming and optimal practices for licensed cannabis production that go above and beyond California’s existing laws and regulations.

Here are 5 key takeaways from the symposium and how they apply locally:

Collaboration for Environmental Stewardship: The discussions and panelists underscored the necessity of cooperation among regulators, non-profit organizations, academics, and cannabis farmers to foster environmental stewardship. This collaboration is crucial for the development of sustainable practices and environmental protection at the local level.

Appellation of Origin Programs: The symposium highlighted the significance of appellation of origin programs in promoting environmental stewardship and supporting small-scale cannabis cultivators. Appellation provides a means for small farms to differentiate their products from others by highlighting their sustainable practices and also their geographic origins. (See 23:30 Francis Bean, California Department of Farming and Agriculture.)

Equitable and Sustainable Business Practices: In 2021, Nevada County’s legal cannabis market crop value was $16 million (as compared to approximately $19 million for all agricultural users.) However, in 2022, that number dropped by 50% with cannabis crop value shooting down to $6.9 million. Participants recognized the historical context and stressed the need for a more equitable and sustainable future is essential to the success of the legal cannabis industry. In order to better understand the barriers to getting licensed, in 2023, the County conducted a Cannabis Equity Assessment . Based on these historical (and current) issues, the State and County have offered grants to assist with the costs of licensing, regulatory costs, capital improvements, and sustainable practices. These grants support cannabis businesses transition to the legal and regulated market.

Transparency and Accountability: By promoting standards and practices that prioritize environmental stewardship, the industry can transition from extractive practices towards a more sustainable and community-oriented approach. Through the application of methods like composting, cover cropping, and natural pest control, Nevada County growers are able to grow the crop and also contribute to environmental conservation. SYRCL recognizes the work of the Nevada County Cannabis Alliance and their members to educate and steward sustainable agricultural standards.

Role of Funding and Grants: Restorative grants and capacity-building programs can provide financial assistance and resources to cultivators, encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices and restoration efforts. CDFW is currently offering grants that include transitioning from a provisional to an annual license, implementing sustainable cultivation methods, and improving water conservation. The grant proposals must also provide co-benefits such as species conservation, promoting equity, and habitat improvements, among others. Various projects already funded under this opportunity include planning and implementing cultivation practices, rainwater collection systems, water storage, invasive species management, and watercourse crossing upgrades.

By embracing regenerative practices and collaboration with Nevada County, cannabis farmers can set a precedent for other agricultural sectors and contribute to a more sustainable future.

For more information on the Symposium visit: Cannabis and Environmental Stewardship Symposium – Cannabis Studies Lab

SYRCL’s Growing Green Program supports environmentally friendly cannabis techniques and the use of best management practices

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Next in the series:

GETTING THE GOOD BUGS: HOW TO FARM FOR BENEFICIAL INSECTS AND BIODIVERSITY

Presentation by: Jessa Kay-Cruz, Senior Pollinator Conservation Specialist at Xerces Society
This presentation will focus on techniques to attract beneficial insects onto your farm.
Wednesday, May 29th, 2024 3:00PM
Register for the webinar HERE

Get Legit | Nevada County Cannabis Alliance (nccannabisalliance.org)

Want to learn more about SYRCL’s Growing Green program? Visit: Growing Green • SYRCL (yubariver.org)