Join the MCL and Mark Isselhardt for an in-person event - "Timeless and thoroughly modern: Maple syrup production in the 21st century"

Maple syrup is an iconic non-timber forest product that has a rich history in Vermont. For generations the production of maple products was carried out on a relatively small scale by a large number of sugar makers as a regular part of farm activities. The shift away from an agrarian economy over the past 100 years has seen a dramatic reduction in the number of operations producing maple products.

However, thanks large part to the immense labor savings of modern vacuum tubing systems and a relatively stable price, maple has grown dramatically in the last 20 years. This session will include an update on the technology used for sap collection and the current state science related to determining if modern maple production remains a sustainable crop.

Extension maple specialist Mark Isselhardt performs original research related to the production of maple syrup. His focus is on issues that are relevant to all producers regardless of the size of operation. Mark works with Vermont's maple producers, sharing research and information to help them ensure long-term tree health, improve management of their sugarbush and increase profitability through higher sap yield, syrup production efficiency and sales. In addition to conducting research and consulting with producers, he is involved in organizing educational meetings including the annual January Maple Conferences.