By Blake Jackson
Governor Kathy Hochul is urging New Yorkers to celebrate Maple Month and support local maple producers, highlighting the state's significant role in maple syrup production.
New York, ranking second nationally, saw a substantial increase in maple production in 2024, reaching 846,000 gallons.
To showcase this thriving industry, the state is hosting Maple Weekends on March 22-23 and March 29-30, along with various events throughout March.
Governor Hochul has also proposed increased funding in the FY26 Executive Budget to further enhance the maple industry and establish New York as a leading maple innovator.
“Maple Month is officially underway, offering New Yorkers from every corner of the State the chance to support the hardworking producers of this sweet agricultural crop,” Governor Hochul said.
“New York State has a long history with this delicious crop and continues to be home to a thriving community of maple producers making some of the most delicious and innovative maple products in the world. I encourage all New Yorkers to participate in Maple Weekends to sample some of the world-class items that New York’s maple community has to offer.”
To kick off Maple Month, Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball visited Shadow Hill Maple Farm in Wayne County for the annual maple tree tapping.
This family-owned farm, part of the New York State Grown & Certified program, is open throughout March, offering maple product sampling, facility tours, and demonstrations of sap collection and syrup making.
The NYS Grown & Certified program, which includes over 100 maple producers, ensures adherence to high food safety and environmental standards. A list of participating producers is available at certified.ny.gov/where-buy.
“As the first agricultural crop of the year, the maple season provides a sweet way to usher in New York’s delicious harvest season. Thanks to our dedicated maple producers, including those who are in our NYS Grown & Certified program, New York continues to be a top maple producer in the country, contributing tremendously to our local communities and economies," said Commissioner Richard A. Ball.
"I encourage New Yorkers to find a nearby, local producer hosting Maple Weekend activities to find out more about the syrup-making process, taste some delicious New York products, and support this unique industry!”
During Maple Weekends, maple farms across the state will open their doors to the public, offering tours, pancake breakfasts, and demonstrations of traditional and modern syrup-making methods. A searchable list of events is available at mapleweekend.nysmaple.com.
Photo Credit: pixabay-johan1127
Categories: New York, Government & Policy