Navigating hemp’s future in Colorado

Brian Koontz, Hemp Program Manager, poses in his office at the Colorado Department of Agriculture, Tuesday, May 5, 2026. (KGNU/DeRae Logan)

Navigating hemp’s future in Colorado KGNU News

By DeRae Logan

Industry leaders, farmers, and policymakers gathered in Denver for the Spring Hemp Symposium, where conversations centered around the future of Colorado’s hemp industry and the growing uncertainty surrounding regulation and hemp-derived products.

Among the speakers was Brian Koontz, who discussed the challenges businesses and growers are currently navigating as state and federal policies continue to evolve. In an interview with KGNU, Koontz emphasized the need for clearer regulations, stronger communication within the industry, and continued public education surrounding hemp and cannabinoid products.

The symposium also highlighted broader concerns about the economic future of hemp in Colorado, while offering growers, entrepreneurs, and consumers an opportunity to connect and discuss the next phase of the industry’s development.

Brian Koontz, Hemp Program Manager, poses in the lobby of the Colorado Department of Agriculture, Tuesday, May 5, 2026. (KGNU/DeRae Logan)

This story aired on the Morning Magazine, KGNU’s weekday morning show featuring in-depth discussions on local news issues. Click here to listen to other episodes of the Morning Magazine.