New Grant to Expand Maple Sugaring Outreach and Education Efforts in the State

Wednesday, December 8th, 2021 -- 8:00 AM

(Wisconsin Ag Connection) A new three-year USDA Acer Access and Development grant will allow the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension and partners to expand maple sugaring outreach and education efforts in the state.

According to the Wisconsin Ag Connection, the project is geared toward private woodland owners, farmers, tribal communities and other groups that have been overlooked by previous outreach efforts but are well positioned to take advantage of the economic, culinary and cultural benefits of sugaring.

"Wisconsin has a rich cultural tradition around maple syrup and has experienced growth in production and value over the past decade," said Tricia Gorby, project collaborator and director of Extension's Natural Resources Institute.

"There is significant potential to grow the number of landowners actively engaged in sustainable management of lands for maple sugaring activities, and these practices often complement the diverse values and management goals they hold for their woodlands."

Stakeholders will use federal grant money to develop and deliver tailored programming to meet the needs of producers and help them overcome any barriers to getting started in the industry. Wisconsin ranks fourth nationally for maple syrup production, only trailing Vermont, New York and Maine.

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