Ag Matters – Maple Production An Expanding Market

New York ranks near the top in several agricultural categories.  Milk, Grapes and pumpkins to name a few.  Maple Syrup is also at the top, ranking 2nd in the nation.  And it could be an expanding market.

Michael Farrell, from Cornell University’s Maple Research and Extension program, says "New York is the second largest producer of maple syrup in the country and contains the most tappable maple trees of any state."  He adds that one about 1% of the states' trees are used for production.

The other promising outlook is the decline in imitation pancake syrups sales and the growth in pure maple syrup.  Farrell says that growth is at about 6-10% annually.

America's fascination with "healthy products" could play into increased sales too.  Several companies have started marketing "maple water" as a new healthy beverage.  Two online sites, Drink Maple.com and Vertical Water.com touts maple's benefits.

Farrell adds, “People can tap trees in their backyard or visit a maple producer on Maple Weekend to get a taste of fresh ‘maple water’ straight from the tree.