Casinos on Native American land have poured billions into tribal economies since the late 1980s, lifting many people from poverty. Now, some hope, cultivating industrial hemp could do the same.

Every part of the hemp plant has great market value‒the seeds, stalks, leaves and hurd (the woody core of the stalk). Traditionally, Natives used hemp to make medicinal salve, fishing nets and clothing.

Though New Mexico is in the minority of states that does not allow legal hemp production, one religious Taos nonprofit is harvesting a hemp crop to up the supply of seeds for its sacramental growers.

Though New Mexico is in the minority of states that does not allow legal hemp production, one religious Taos nonprofit is harvesting a hemp crop to up the supply of seeds for its sacramental growers.

The symposium is targeted at tribal leaders, regulators, attorneys, investors, and anyone wanting to know more about the new economic opportunity for Indian country.