Local hemp producers, sellers eye budding ‘Vermont brand’ recreational cannabis market

By Cherise Madigan
©2020 Telegraph Publishing LLC

Although Vermont’s recreational cannabis market will not open until 2022, the budding CBD industry may be poised to pave the way for new and expanding businesses in the region.

While questions remain as to the size of Vermont’s future cannabis industry and the scope of its economic impact, existing CBD growers, processors and retailers are optimistic that a “craft cannabis” marketplace awaits, one that emphasizes “local.”

The state’s CBD market is thriving. CBD  — cannabidiol — is the non-psychoactive ingredient in cannabis derived from hemp and marijuana plants that, according Harvard Health Publishers, can treat conditions such as pain, insomnia, childhood seizures and anxiety, among others.   It can be used orally in food and drink or as rubs and salves.

Meanwhile the state legislature is working toward a freer recreational cannabis marketplace. Currently, a single adult can possess 1 ounce of marijuana and two mature plants and four immature ones. And the state is opening it up to larger growers and processors.

For towns, however, the state legislation is prompting discussions surrounding retail operations and tax revenue — decisions that will…