Supporters say it's a wonder crop that would be a boon for sustainable economic development in rural America.
Opponents say it's a cover crop for growing marijuana.
Media coverage is welcome. Dr. Ruben Carbonell, director of the Kenan Institute and professor of chemical engineering at NC State, will open the forum at 1 p.m. Tuesday with welcoming remarks. Growing industrial hemp is illegal in the United States. It is legal in Europe, Canada and other nations.