Federal Bill Would Extend Maple Syrup Market In Connecticut

COLUMBIA, CT — Just in time for "Maple Weekend," U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney has announced a new bipartisan, bicameral bill that is designed to support the maple industry and increase seniors' access to locally sourced maple syrup products.

The MAPLE Act, which would add maple syrup to the eligible products under the Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program. SFMNP gives low-income seniors access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture programs.

Wilkinson Farm owners Mat and Cindy Wilkinson, said, "Like all agriculture in Connecticut, maple producers face high production costs, unpredictable weather, and pressure from out of state syrup sold in our local stores. This change will support sales growth of CT Grown farm products and strengthen Connecticut agriculture’s economic impact in the state."

They added, "We are very excited about Congressman Courtney's support for the inclusion of pure maple syrup in the USDA's Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. This program will not only enable seniors to continue enjoying a wonderful product they grew up with, but it will also help increase sales of pure maple syrup for the small family owned and operated farms in Connecticut, including our own."

Based on research from the University of Rhode Island and the International Maple Syrup Institute, maple syrup is one of the healthiest sweeteners – comparable to honey which is currently included in the program, Courtney said.

Courtney also said federal agriculture officials were on board early.

"We need to do everything we can in Congress to support Connecticut’s local farmers and producers like Wilkinson Farm, a seven-generation family run farm. The MAPLE Act will expand the market for producers while improving seniors’ access to fresh products through the Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program," Courtney said. "I’m grateful for (Connecticut Agriculture) Commissioner (Bryan) Hurlburt's support and his work to support the wide variety of producers we have in the State who, despite challenges, persevere and continue to provide local food for our region."

Added Hurlburt, "We applaud Congressman Courtney for his sponsorship of the MAPLE Act, which will create parity among specialty crops and expand the purchase power of consumers who utilize the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program,” said Connecticut Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “This will also increase market access for Connecticut’s maple syrup producers who participate in certified CT Grown farmers’ markets and farm stands enabling future growth for these small businesses.”

The MAPLE Act was introduced by Senators Welch (D-VT) and Collins (R-ME), and Representatives Langworthy (R-NY) and Courtney (D-CT) yesterday.

The bill is endorsed by the International Maple Syrup Institute, New York State Maple Producers Association, North American Maple Syrup Council, Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association, and Wisconsin Maple Syrup Producers Association.

For a fact sheet on the bill, click here.