Vermont continues to lead the nation by a commanding margin as the top maple producing state. Total U.S. maple syrup production in 2020 was 4.37 million gallons, with Vermont’s contribution accounting for 2.22 million of those gallons (that’s about 51% of U.S. production).
The Vermont Maple Sugar Makers’ Association (VMSMA) offers the statewide annual Maple Open House Weekend as a chance for Vermont sugar makers to open the doors of their sugar houses. Normally, they’d be inviting visitors traveling from near and far into sugar houses to learn, taste, and explore firsthand why people should think of Vermont first when they think of maple syrup.
While this year’s cancellation is much less of a surprise than 2020, Vermont sugar makers miss having in person opportunities to share their craft during the sugaring season. But there are still many ways for folks across the country to get their favorite Vermont maple products. Put your feet up, wash your mask, keep your sweatpants on and hop online to have your favorite Vermont Maple products delivered right to your door at vermontmaple.org/buy-pure-maple. While you’re online and at home, it’s also a great time to join Vermont Maple on Facebook. You can find links to Vermont sugar makers, watch maple videos and use our recipes to make some maple comfort food.
If you are a Vermont student between the ages of 16 and 21 and have knowledge and experience with maple sugaring, get involved through the association’s ambassador program this year. Ambassadors promote, publicize and educate the public with their maple knowledge.
A $2,500 scholarship will be awarded to each of the two ambassadors chosen. The selection will be made virtually via Zoom on Saturday, April 17.
