Jim Saunders: Chief Farming Officer

Jim has a deeply-rooted connection to South Georgia’s farming community, with 40 years of experience in the agricultural industry. He knows farm culture inside and out, helping guide our team to ensure we’re protecting and supporting local farmers.

What brought you to the hemp industry?

The hemp business was not exactly on my radar. Growing up in south Georgia and coming from a tobacco farming family were what originally got me into this industry. Due to my background with tobacco, which is similar to growing hemp, I helped establish SCA.

What’s your backstory? What did you do before this “green revolution” in GA?

I have always been involved with the heavy equipment business in construction and farming. This opportunity has opened the door for me to get more involved with the farmers, which I enjoy.

How’d that prepare you for now?

The relationships that I have made throughout my career have made it an easy transition.

How does your experience make SCA a strong player in the GA hemp market?

My connections with key players in the agriculture industry throughout the state of Georgia and my understanding of growing the product, along with my knowledge of the farming culture, make me an essential player on the SCA team. 

How do you see the industry changing the most in the next year or two?

With the exponential growth of CBD and CBG usage among the world population, I see the hemp industry exploding in the next five years.

If someone had told you 5 years ago that you’d be growing cannabis, what would you have said?

I would have probably said “I don’t think so.”

What’s your prediction for the future of hemp and cannabis products?

I predict that CBD/CBG will be approved by the FDA for food products and that soft drinks, beer, and wine will be using these products as additives. I predict the hemp industry as a whole will become a commodity and that hemp will revitalize the American farmer financially.