S.C. Department of Agriculture gets software to track hemp

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The S.C. Department of Agriculture is getting new computer software to track production and ensure the state’s hemp farmers and processors are complying with state and federal regulations.

The software from Kelly Registration Systems will manage and automate permit information in the state’s hemp licensing program, including farmers, handlers and processors of hemp.

The S.C. Department of Agriculture initiated its Industrial Hemp Pilot Program in 2018, administering permits to 20 farmers statewide. Currently, there are 114 licensed hemp farmers and more than 40 licensed hemp processors. The department said it needed a more efficient way to manage documents that previously had been submitted on paper files.

Derek Underwood, assistant commissioner with the S.C. Department of Agriculture, said new federal regulations take effect in 2020 that require thorough tracking of hemp and the products made from it.  

“Our primary goal is to administer the program regulatory-wise and keep people in compliance with local, federal and state law,” he said.

The system includes password-protected accounts for state administrators and users and an online application and renewal process with online payment capabilities. It also includes QR codes that will allow quick access to information.

“As South Carolina’s hemp industry continues to develop and expand, KRS’ technology will help us better serve farmers, processors and others,” said Hugh Weathers, S.C. Commissioner of Agriculture.

State administrators will be connected to lab staff for regulation and enforcement functions. Law enforcement agencies also will have access to information uploaded to the system.

System users will receive hemp ID cards with a QR code that will store additional specific information to the license holder. Underwood said the system allows state agriculture officials to track hemp production from seed to the finished product.

“When it is completed, the marketing side of our agency will help promote the products,” he said. “They’ll be able to use this same software and just add more data collection points and more access points to be able to collect more data that can be used for marketing reasons.”

Underwood said farmers have a small window between when they test their hemp for allowable THC level and when they harvest it, and the system will speed up the testing and reporting process. If the hemp tests too high for THC, law enforcement has to be notified, and the hemp must be destroyed.

“We understand the importance of transparency,” said Josey Cameron, project manager with Kelly Registration Systems. “The use of QR coding and GPS mapping through this system will provide both the SCDA and law enforcement with valuable information related to hemp farming, handling and processing in the state.”

As SCDA has used KRS software for licenses, permits and registration for other agricultural producers and suppliers, Underwood said the program should be easy for department employees to use.

The new system goes live in January. Applications for the 2020 hemp growing season open Feb. 1.

Production numbers from the 2019 growing season are not yet available.