For this spotlight we picked out an unusual story of success in the industry. While most choose to head west in chase of the "Great Green Rush", John Hine and Anna Rivers of High Pointe Hemp went the opposite direction. After over 20 years of combined experience in the infamous Oregon cannabis industry - the couple split east for greener pastures. Back to Anna's roots in the Blue Grass State, fate led them back to cannabis in a big way. 

How did High Pointe Hemp get into the hemp industry? What helps you guys stand out?:

Standing out in the hemp industry is a challenge, but staying true to our business model and motto, “Premium Small Batch” is definitely what sets us apart. Our operation is only 5 acres and uses all natural inputs, is harvested by hand and finished with a slow cure in our climate controlled dry space. Many companies are operating on such a scale that it’s not a viable option to follow this model. We plan to expand by offering new products but retaining our current scale of production allowing us to maintain our commitment to quality.  But most importantly that means no corner cutting, no fake terps, just premium high cannabinoid flowers grown, hand harvested, hang dried, and slow cured in the traditional fashion. 

Currently we have sun grown, native soil CBD and CBD-V flower, as well as a premium greenhouse grown CBD. We’re beginning the washing, pressing and testing process for a rosin tincture and a disposable CBD rosin cart to come and we're super excited about these future products!

There are many aspects in this plant world that I could count as a favorite, everyday is a blend of science, creative problem solving and physical labor. I could never see myself sitting behind a desk full time, my goal is to eventually hire for those jobs and continue to care directly for this plant that I believe has such a huge potential in this world. I serve as High Pointe’s head farmer, which involves oversight of both greenhouse and sungrown crops. We always have additional help in the field planting, harvesting, and then post harvest production which is a huge piece to the puzzle. We’re still very small as 2023 was our first year in operation. My partner, Anna is high pointe hemp-behind the scenes, she’s put together our website and brand and serves as general operational support.

We rent a previously unused piece of land from a fairly large thoroughbred horse training facility, so our reception has been met with mixed responses you might say. Most either love or don’t mind the change in scenery on their riding path. Some aren’t so sure yet.

Do you have any advice for anyone entering the industry? Where do you think the industry is headed?

We’re pretty new and still learning to navigate our way ourselves. The biggest thing for people to remember is that farming is always a gamble, no matter what the crop. With experience, knowledge and skill we can tilt the odds in our favor, but both mother nature and the market still get a chance to play. There will inevitably be regulatory action in regards to THCA flower, and quite possibly all smokable hemp flowers, in the near future that everyone will have to be ready for.

The hemp and cannabis communities have always been vibrant learning communities when you cut through the hype and ‘fluff’. I recognize daily the many talented growers I've been able to meet and work with along the way. Everyone has had their own struggle with this crop and in turn their own tips and tricks in mitigating their losses. It’s shared knowledge that I use everyday in moving High Pointe Hemp forward.