Bull
Creek
WECO’s Hemp Fed Cattle R&D Program in Oklahoma
About Bull Creek
- Innovative livestock feed derived from hemp seed meal, hemp hulls, and stalk fiber byproducts and CBD flower
- Targets sustainable agriculture, circular economy, and improved animal welfare
- Utilizes nutrient-dense residues from hemp oil extraction or fiber processing
Why Oklahoma?
- Industrial hemp is legal in Oklahoma under both state and federal law (2018 Farm Bill)
- The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry (ODAFF) oversees licensing for hemp cultivation and processing
- Hemp byproducts (seed meal, hulls, fiber) can be used for animal feed that meets FDA and Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) safety standards
- As of 2025, hemp feed for cattle is still in pilot and research stages in Oklahoma – approval for commercial sale is pending further research on nutrient safety and THC content (<0.3%)
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein (25-35%) with balanced amino acid profile
- Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids which improves coat, fertility, and immune function
- Contains digestible fiber that supports rumen health and gut microbiota
- Provides natural antioxidants (tocopherols) and trace minerals
Sustainability Advantages
- Reduces reliance on soy and corn which lowers deforestation and carbon footprint
- Grown with minimal pesticides and less water than conventional feed crops
- Supports regenerative farming and soil restoration through deep root systems
- Byproduct valorization: uses hemp resides otherwise discarded
Animal Health & Productivity
- Enhances weight gain and feed conversion ratios
- Promotes calmer behavior due to high magnesium and fatty acid content
- May reduce methane emissions from ruminant digestion (ongoing studies)
- Improves milk quality (higher Omega-3 content) in dairy cattle
Economic Opportunities
- Creates new markets for hemp processors and local farmers
- Potential for carbon credits and sustainability labeling
- Reduced feed import costs and increased regional resilience
- Synergy with hemp fiber, oil, and CBD industries
Regulatory & Research Notes
- Must comply with FDA/USDA feed safety standards
- Legal THC limit <0.3%; non-psychoactive parts only
- Continued research needed on long-term feeding trials and nutrient bioavailibility
- Collaboration opportunities with universities and ag-tech partners
Implementation Path
- Start with hemp seed cake inclusion trials (5-15% of diet)
- Partner with local hemp oil producers for raw material sourcing
- Develop branded “Hemp-Smart Feed” emphasizing sustainability and animal wellness
- Educate ranchers and consumers on benefits and compliance
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