Join us at the Proctor Maple Research Center for an immersive experience to learn more about managing sugarbushes with biodiversity and climate resilience in mind. We will discuss the environmental stewardship that ensures the future of maple sugaring, dive into the crucial relationship between maple sugaring and forest health, and provide some context for certifications, such as organic, bird-friendly, and the VMSMA sugarhouse certification.
The afternoon will include a guided tour through the working sugarbush and sugarhouse, where we will discuss best practices for supporting biodiversity and practice using newly created field guides to look for biodiversity indicators. We will conclude the day with a syrup tasting.
Please note that this intensive includes a walking tour; please bring weather-appropriate footwear and clothing.
If you have questions or needs around accessibility, please don't hesitate to reach out!
Also, note that this workshop was originally scheduled to take place as part of our intensive workshop lineup at the 2025 NOFA-VT Winter Conference in February, but needed to be rescheduled due to weather-related challenges.
