Farms of Benzie: Tour & Taste of Maple Syrup

Greg Kindig, owner of The Ant & the Grasshopper Farm, boils sap in his sugar shack.

Sap dripping from the sugar maple is one of the surest signs of early spring in Michigan. The main sap flow occurs in March. This sweet nectar of spring is boiled over steady fires until it is concentrated into a golden syrup. As soon as the buds begin to swell in April, the sap becomes off-flavored or "buddy" and collecting is discontinued. If care is taken, no permanent damage is done to the tree. While it may yield sap for 100 years or more, a tree is usually not mature enough for permanent tapping until it reaches 45 years old.

The Benzie Conservation District is pleased to invite the public to tour a working sugar shack, and taste delicious maple syrup treats! The farm visit is scheduled for Saturday, March 26th, from 10am to 12pm, at The Ant and the Grasshopper Farm, 4758 Joyfield Rd, Frankfort. This is a free family event, but please dress accordingly for spending time outdoors! The talented folks at Grow Benzie are providing the tasty refreshments. Donations are suggested. 

Contact Aimé Merizon, outreach coordinator, for more information: 231-882-4391 x11; [email protected].

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