AUGUSTA, Maine - Maine's maple season seems to be off to a decent start, with no significant problems foreseen, as the state prepares to celebrate its 34th annual Maine Maple Sunday.
According to state data, effort in the industry has grown steadily over a six year period.
"Last year, you know the season had 675 thousand gallons, and that's up from 315 thousand gallons in 2010." says Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry spokesman John Bott.
The number of taps also increased by 26% over that period. According to department data, Maine’s industry has an annual statewide economic contribution, including multiplier effects, of $48.7 million. The industry also provides 805 full and part-time jobs, with workers bringing home $25.1 million in employment income.
Overall, Maine is the third biggest maple producer, after Vermont and New York, with much of Maine's output going to bulk supply.
"I just think consumers have a growing appreciation- health conscious consumers- for a natural, renewable product." says Bott. And he says new markets are opening up. "You're starting to see the emergence of other products beyond maple syrup and maple candy. There's been some talk of maple water, and barrel aged maple." he says.
Maple water- a sap drink- is touted by some as a healthful beverage, similar to coconut water.
But the industry is heavily weather dependent and relies on cold nights and warmish spring days to get sap flowing. So far, conditions have mostly cooperated, with initial reports indicating that the sap run so far is showing higher sugar content than last year's run, which for many was long but watery.
85 sugarhouses from Wells to Eagle Lake will be open to visitors Sunday. Among offerings: samples, sugarbush tours, demonstrations of sugar making, and products for sale.
