In his talk, Nathan Hall uncovers what it means to have a grounded Appalachian economy in an increasingly tech-driven and climate-conscious global context. He describes why he thinks high-value CBD hemp production on creek bottom fields and reclaimed strip mines represents one of the best cultural, climatic and geographic fits for the region's future. His story shows us how the development of a profitable and sustainable agriculture economy is possible—as we see how he learned to turn environmental liabilities into productive assets in his community. Nathan Hall, a former underground coal miner, has spent years restoring damaged Appalachian landscapes and imagining new sustainable sectors for the region's economy—and has found CBD hemp to be the most promising option yet. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx