Governor Greg Gianforte and first lady Susan Gianforte of Montana paid a visit to IND HEMP in Fort Benton, so of course we did our official ribbon cutting for our hemp fiber facility. The Governor’s visit highlighted the potential of the emerging hemp industry in Montana and showcased the cutting-edge technology being used at the processing center to turn raw hemp fiber into a variety of high-value products.

The Governor was greeted by the team and was taken on a tour of the facility.. The processing center decorticates hemp stalk into fiber and the inner woody core, hurd. There are several different air classification, sizing and separation processes that follow, ultimately resulting in multiple value-added streams. These products are utilized in a range of industries and products including bio-insulates (insulation), bedding, construction, biocomposites, non-wovens applications, energy, amongst a host of others.

During the tour, the Governor was impressed by the design, engineering, and overall  the ability of the advanced technology to clean, dry, and refine the hemp fiber into high-quality materials. The Governor also had the opportunity to speak with some of our team members at the facility, who shared their passion for the hemp industry and the potential it holds for Montana’s economy.

After the tour, the Governor spoke about the industry and voiced the challenges and opportunities facing the hemp industry in Montana. Topics included regulatory issues, investment opportunities, and the potential for job creation and economic growth.

The Governor’s visit to the fiber facility at IND HEMP was a clear signal of support for the emerging hemp industry in Montana, and a recognition of the potential that this industry holds for the state’s economy and environment. With innovative companies like ours leading the way in hemp fiber processing and manufacturing, Montana is well-positioned to become a hub for the sustainable, high-tech, and environmentally friendly products of the future.

Although we were a short stop on his busy day, we made the most of our time. “Thank you for your investment in Montana, the jobs, and value added- it’s terrific.” Governor Giantfore said to Morgan. “Yeah! We’ve been blessed. Fort Benton is an amazing community, and we are very happy to be here.” 

Time to bust out the Fort Benton golden giant scissors!”