Locally Made Hemp Products
Atkinson Acres Hemp Farm
by Candace Lagerhausen
Iredell County is home to many pick-your-own opportunities: berries, pumpkins, and even hemp. “That was my whole start for this”, shared Greg Atkinson, owner of Atkinson Acres Hemp Farm. What he started as an opportunity for people to pick their own hemp quickly grew into much more. In addition to growing the hemp, Greg creates and sells a number of products, ranging from soaps and shampoo, to beard oil and tattoo shine. “It’s been great, it’s really interesting”, Greg said of learning the hemp-growing process.
The farm hosts a Hemp Stock Fall Festival with fun activities for all ages. In addition to education about hemp, and the opportunity to pick-your-own, the festival will have vendors, food trucks, and music. A percentage of the proceeds will benefit The Magic of the Outdoors for Kids – an organization founded by Greg. “We’re trying to get children outside and off of computers”, Greg said. The organization has various programs where kids can tour the farm, and learn about sustainable farming.
