The History of Cannabis in Wisconsin and Beyond

Description

Cannabis cultivation has a long and varied history in Wisconsin. You can learn about the changing perceptions of the plant in science and culture by attending, “The History of Cannabis in Wisconsin and Beyond,” on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 5:30 p.m. The lecture is part of the free 2025-26 College of Letters and Science Community Engagement Series. Originally planned for Sept. 23 in the Dreyfus University Center, the event had to be postponed so fire crews could contain a small fire in the building food court.
 
The event will feature professor and Department of Biology Chair Brian Barringer. Learn about UW-Stevens Point’s active, multidisciplinary research and teaching program focused on Cannabis. Barringer will explore the history of Cannabis cultivation and its evolving role in Wisconsin and beyond. The event is free and open to the public, but participants are encouraged to register by Oct. 12 to guarantee seating. Tickets can be reserved at uwspcannabis.eventbrite.com.
 
“Wisconsin was once one of our nation's leading producers of Cannabis,” said Barringer. “By studying this history, we gain insight into how past choices shape current opportunities for research, innovation and community well-being.”

The College of Letters and Science Community Engagement Series for 2025-2026 will invite participants to engage in timely conversations about cannabis cultivation, regulation, public health, and its evolving role in Wisconsin and beyond. As one of the world’s oldest cultivated plants, cannabis offers a rich lens through which to examine issues of science, policy, and culture. All events are open to the public and available on demand via livestream.
Fall lecture dates are below:
 

• Oct. 14 – 5:30 p.m. “The History of Cannabis in Wisconsin and Beyond”
• Nov. 4– 5:30 p.m. “Cannabis Social and Legal Landscape Shifts”