Celebrate Maple Sugar Time in NH

Although we had a mild winter, temperature-wise, and the tap timing is a little off this year, the sap is rising in maple trees across New Hampshire. Maple sugar producers are now tapping these rich sources in preparation for the big harvest that marks the start of spring!

If you’d like to see the process up close in the Lakes Region of NH, you can get in on all the maple sugaring action at Prescott Farm in Laconia. Every Saturday throughout March, Prescott Farm welcomes the public to its Maple Sugar Madness program, where visitors can learn everything about the techniques of sugaring, from tapping to tasting!

The program runs three times each Saturday: from 10:00 – 11:30, 12:00 – 1:30, and 2:00 – 3:30.  Guests will have an opportunity for hands-on participation in every step of the syrup-making process. The farm’s environmental educators help visitors build tree identification skills, learn the parts of a tree, and discover how each part functions. Then visitors use measuring tools to find an appropriate maple tree to tap, and try their hands at historical as well as modern tree tapping tools. The experience is enhanced with presentations of the history of maple sugaring, including Native American legends, woven into the program. Guests also learn the math and science involved in the boiling process. Then it’s time to taste the results!

This program does involve a 20-minute walk to the Sugar House and a hike back up the hill after the program, so dress appropriately for the weather, and don’t forget the snow boots!  Snowshoes are available if needed. For more information and to reserve your spot, call 603-366-5695.

Over 110 NH maple producers are gearing up the 18^th Annual NH Maple Weekend taking place March 23^rd & 24^th this year. Sugarhouses will be open to visit and will have plenty of fresh maple syrup and other maple products. Some locations will be offering pancake breakfasts, while others will have live entertainment and family activities. Every sugarhouse offers a great learning experience about one of the Granite State’s oldest industries. Also check out NH.com for a long list of maple syrup farms and sugar shacks in the state.

Celebrate the sweetest season of the year—now is the time to stock up on real NH maple syrup and support our local maple producers!

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team