On September 23, 2014, the University of Kentucky harvested the first experimental hemp crop at Spindletop Farm off Iron Works Pike. The research plot, planted May 27, was conducted in conjunction with Eastern Kentucky University and Kentucky State University.
“Congratulations to the University of Kentucky and all of our partners in the hemp pilot projects on the first hemp crop in Kentucky in almost 70 years,” said Agriculture Commissioner James Comer, who has championed the cause of returning hemp production to the commonwealth. “This crop will yield significant data about production techniques, which varieties do best in Kentucky and which of the many uses of hemp are most likely to succeed here.”
UK researchers used a sickle bar mower to harvest the crop in the same manner that hay is harvested. The research project included 13 different varieties managed for either fiber production or seed production. See more in the video below.
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Sources
http://www.kentucky.com/news/local/article44511684.html
http://news.ca.uky.edu/article/uk-harvests-hemp
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_bDi6inr2g