Adopt A Maple: A 'Sappy' Way To Support Westmoreland Sanctuary

MOUNT KISCO, NY — The groundhog says spring is just around the corner and spring is the time when our collected fancy turns to thoughts of sweet, sweet, maple syrup.

This year, you can support the Westmoreland Sanctuary with an "Adopt-A-Maple Membership." The maple you adopt won't come home with you and will instead continue to thrive in the protected sanctuary, but you will be able to visit and even help the naturalist when it's time to tap your own maple tree.

In addition to the gratitude of the trees, benefits of adoption include receiving your own bottle of genuine maple syrup made from Westmoreland's trees, a maple sugaring demonstration including syrup and sap tastings, and a special invitation to Westmoreland's annual SugarFest! on March 11.

On Saturday, March 18, a public maple sugaring demonstration will take place. All are welcome. Participants will learn about dendrology and the life cycles of maple trees, and have a chance to try their hands at using colonial maple sugaring tools. Visitors will also compare and contrast the tastes of raw maple sap, artificial syrup, and authentic maple syrup.

The event will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m and will be suitable for all ages. The fun starts at the Westmoreland Sanctuary, located at 260 Chestnut Ridge Rd. in Mount Kisco.