Local maple syrup producers set to kick-off the season

The temperature roller coaster experienced this week is a sure sign spring is fast approaching.

Another sign is the start of maple syrup season in Waterloo Region.

Local producers, officials and dignitaries will be on hand this week for the annual kick-off celebration at Maple Tap Farm in New Dundee.

Kevin Snyder is the President of the Waterloo Wellington chapter of the Ontario Maple Syrup Producers Association. He said they’re hoping for another solid season, but that will depend on the weather.

“It’s what Mother Nature gives us; we need the proper weather. Freezing nights and warm days, which get the sap going. Predictions of how our season is going to turn out, ask me in six weeks when the season is over.”

Snyder said yields have been average to above average for the past few years, so they’re hoping for more of the same. He was asked if climate change has had an impact on yields over the years. Snyder said, that’s hard to say.

“I do know more and more producers are adding more taps to their operation. Overall, the yield seems to be increasing due to management practices and how we’re collecting the sap. So, it’s hard to tell.”

Canada is the number one supplier of maple syrup, pumping out around 75 per cent of the syrup sold worldwide. And, while the majority of that comes from Quebec, but Ontario is also a major player. Waterloo Region is a significant contributor to the province’s portion.

It’s such a staple in the region that we celebrate it every spring with the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival.

Snyder said some people might not be aware that real maple syrup is a 100 per cent natural product, and the process for producing the final product is literally one step.

“All we’re doing is removing the excess water from the tree sap. That’s the only process we do with the syrup. I don’t think there is anything as pure as maple syrup; honey could be included.”

The Elmira Maple Syrup Festival will take over the town on April 11.