The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has become investors in a 500,000-square-foot hemp processing facility in Wichita Falls, Texas, saying it is part of the tribe’s commitment to sustainable and innovative agricultural practices.
A grand opening for the Panda Hemp Gin facility was held last month in Wichita Falls. The facility will process hemp straw that will be used in textiles, straw and pellets, according to the June 28 edition of The Southern Ute Drum, the tribal newspaper.
“This facility represents not just an investment in the future of hemp production … but also a dedication to environmental stewardship and community development,” Tribal Chairman Melvin J. Baker said at a ribbon-cutting, according to the Drum.
The tribe is interested in sequestering carbon dioxide emissions not just on a local level but on a national scale, said Shane Seibel, executive director of the Southern Ute Growth Fund, in an interview with The Durango Herald. That’s why there was interest in investing in the hemp-processing facility, which was built and is operated by Panda Biotech.
Panda Biotech announced its partnership with the tribe in 2023.
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