Governor Cuomo is encouraging Upstate farmers and institutions to participate in the expanded industrial hemp research pilot program in New York.
The program was expanded earlier this year to allow hemp to be grown on about two-thousand acres in the state -- compared to just 30 last year.
Cuomo is calling for New York producers, businesses and universities to participate and help the state lead the way in an emerging industry.
Grants of up to a half a million dollars are available for qualifying applicants interested in participating.