New York Ranks #2 In Maple Production – AG Matters

The Empire State moved into the #2 slot in maple production in 2015. The 601,000 gallons produced was only bested by Vermont. Remi Link with Cornell Cooperative Extension says the future maple looks bright.

As Americans become more enamored with a natural diet and taking care of mother earth; maple syrup and it's by products accomplish both desires.

Granulated maple sugar, maple cream and maple sugar candy are made only from maple syrup.  Each confection is brought up to different temperatures, cooled and then stirred. No other ingredients are added to achieve the soft creaminess of maple cream or the hard granulated texture of the maple sugar.

Maple syrup is also a renewable natural resource.  Forests provide a habitat for wildlife, a natural filter for our water supply and take in carbon dioxide as a process of photosynthesis. A maple forest can provide an extra benefit. The sap can be collected year after year in the early spring and boiled down to what we know as maple syrup. Enjoying maple syrup allows you to appreciate the value of the forest while helping to sustain a natural resource.

New York Maple producers will be celebrating "Maple Weekend" March 19 - 20 and April 2 - 3.  Many will be offering free samples and tastings during the weekends. Find a producer close to you with an easy search engine at their website.

SOURCE: Cornell Cooperative Extension - Remi Link