CSU says yes to hemp, no to weed

Colorado State University will join the statewide hemp craze by growing the crop for research and development purposes.

The university, which has staunchly opposed the on-campus proliferation of hemp’s first cousin, marijuana, has applied with the state Department of Agriculture to grow hemp. CSU’s application joined the 158 others filed by residents and businesses throughout the state, although it was the only university to apply.

Alan Rudolph, CSU’s vice president for research, said he submitted the application on behalf of faculty members who will research various strains of hemp and ideal growing conditions.

Hemp research fits with the university’s mission as a…