Farmers can start applying for a license to grow industrial hemp in Iowa beginning April 1 following recent U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approval of the state’s hemp production program.

“We know farmers are eager for new opportunities, and this milestone means they are one step closer to being able to grow hemp during the 2020 growing season,” said Iowa Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig.

It is still not legal to grow, possess, buy or sell...