Gov. Baker Declares March 'Massachusetts Maple Month'

BOSTON, MA - Governor Charlie Baker has declared March “Massachusetts Maple Month” in an effort to support the Commonwealth’s many maple producers and encourage Massachusetts residents to purchase locally-produced maple products.

“Creating maple syrup is a time-honored Massachusetts tradition that the more than 300 maple syrup producers in the Commonwealth keep alive,” said Gov. Baker, in a press release. “I encourage residents to support our local maple syrup producers and purchase delicious Massachusetts maple products.”

“The income of our dairy farms is supplemented by the production of maple syrup, making it not only the first agricultural crop of the season but also one of the most important,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, in a press release. “By declaring March as Massachusetts Maple month, we hope everyone will take part in recognizing the importance of the Commonwealth’s maple producers.”

Massachusetts is home to approximately 300 maple syrup producers, including many who are open to the public throughout the sugaring season.

Last year approximately 75,000 gallons of maple syrup worth more than $4.3 million was produced across the Commonwealth, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Approximately $1.9 million in revenue is generated by maple farms, restaurants, bed and breakfasts, country inns, and other attractions in farm communities. Additionally, Massachusetts sugar makers steward more than 15,000 acres of woodland.

“Maple syrup is a delicious and versatile natural sweetener, compliments of Mother Nature and the state's maple producers,” said Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) Commissioner Lebeaux, in a statement. “Maple syrup is the first farm product of the season and the oldest agricultural enterprise in the country, and its production helps contribute to the diversity of our agricultural products.”

While March has earned the distinction of Maple Month, tapping in Massachusetts can start at the end of January and continue through April.

For prime sugaring, nights must be below freezing and days must be above freezing. Everything from the weather, soil, and genetics of the tree can affect maple syrup flavor - like wine, flavor can differ from region to region.

The Massachusetts Maple Producers Association will hold its 3rd Annual Maple Weekend March 19 to 20.

Maple Weekend will feature open house events at over 45 sugarhouses, and special maple menus at participating restaurants made with 100% pure Massachusetts maple syrup.

Go to the MassGrown website and click on maple for a complete listing of maple sugar houses or www.massmaple.org.

Photo courtesy of the Massachusetts Maple Producers Association