Community Corner
Maple Sugaring Demonstration Returns to Schiff
6 Available Sessions the week of March 2 and 3!
Schiff Nature Preserves Board of Trustees and volunteers are hosting the annual Maple Sugaring Demonstrations the weekend of March 2nd and 3rd. The public and groups are welcome to come to Schiff to experience a hands-on demonstration of maple sugar production. The tradition of maple sugaring began centuries ago with the Native Americans and early settlers and continues today as participants learn to identify, tap, and process the sap of Maple trees. Join us at the Nature Center for this 1 1/2-hour program at 9:30 am, 11:30 am, and 1:30 pm. The educational presentation will explain the history of maple sugaring, the seasonal life cycle of the sugar maple tree, and how 100% real maple syrup is made starting with identifying a maple tree through tapping the tree. Following the educational program we will see the wood-fired evaporator in action turning the sap into the final sweet product. The best part is tasting fresh syrup made from our own Schiff maple trees. The day includes a Maple Baked Goods Sale so bring some cash to buy some treats in support of Schiff! An optional two-mile field walk to the working maple grove will be offered to see the taps and collection operation. Please arrive at the Nature Center 15 minutes before the start time and dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Boots are recommended as the trails can be wet, muddy, and/or covered by snow. This program is FREE to all Schiff members. Non- member fee is $8 per person. Please register and pay in advance to secure your time slot. Seating is first come, first served. This program will be held rain or shine. Should conditions include extreme wind, cold, or ice, the program will be cancelled. Advance registration ensures that you receive weather cancellation notices.
