Courtesy/ Dunn Family Farm
The sugarhouse at the Dunn Family Farm in Buxton.
Updated: March 17, 2023
How sweet it is: Sugarhouses boiling the sap for Maine Maple Sunday
By Ann Fisher
Steam is rising at sugarhouses across the state as their season to shine approaches ahead of the 40th annual Maine Maple Sunday on March 26.
The event, traditionally held the fourth Sunday in March, promotes an industry that is estimated to generate $55.6 million in annual economic activity this year, according to an announcement from the office of Gov. Janet Mills.
“Maine Maple Sunday Weekend is an opportunity for us all to celebrate the world-class products — and people — that make Maine unique," said Mills, who participated on March 6 in the annual tree-tapping event in Augusta. "Our iconic maple syrup industry supports thousands of jobs, strengthens our economy, and sets us apart nationwide.”
Maine was the third-highest producer of maple syrup in the country in 2022, according to Statista, with 672,000 gallons of syrup. Vermont is always the highest-producing state from year-to-year; in 2022, the Green Mountain State put 2.5 million gallons of the sweet stuff on shelves.
The industry also supports around 800 full- and part-time jobs across the state of Maine in 2020, according to the USDA Maple Syrup Report for the most recent year available.
"My family and I and the entire Maine Maple Producers Association membership are proud to represent the best pure Maine Maple syrup and Maine Maple products," said Maine Maple Producers Association President Lyle Merrifield, who tapped the tree at the governor's event. "Our members are stewards of the land who work hard to sustain this great piece of Maine's agricultural heritage. We look forward to sharing the craftsmanship of maple syrup production with customers during Maine Maple Sunday Weekend."
Sugarhouses across the state offer maple syrup samples and demonstrations on how Maine maple syrup is made from Anson to Wilton.
Many farms offer games, activities, treats, sugarbush tours and music. While the event is traditionally the fourth Sunday in March, some sugar shacks offer events the entire weekend. A complete list of participating operators can be found here.
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Anonymous
March 20, 2023
can I buy these products on line?
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