FONTANA PARK – Since the Pandemic in 2020, there has been a resurgence in interest in skills that fall into the categories of “homesteading†and “foraging.†When it becomes difficult to purchase commonly used items or when there is a real or perceived threat to food security, people are more interested in being able to grow or find foods close to home.
Naturalist Sondra Cabell and 6th graders at St John School in Independence have been delving into one of those skill sets since even before the Pandemic – making maple syrup. This month you have the chance to get involved as well and try it in your own backyard – with some local advice and equipment provided.
Join the fun at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, January 27 at Fontana Interpretive Nature Center for Backyard Syruping 101. With a few basic maple syrup supplies (and a lot of patience), you can make spring’s sweetest treat right in your own backyard – provided you have a tree.
From the basics of tree ID (all maples and a few other trees can be tapped), through equipment, protecting tree health, tapping, cooking and storing, we will cover what you need to make small batch syrup at home. Maple syruping is a great way to get out and enjoy late winter days with a sweet reward at the end.
Participants will be provided one tree spile, a collection bag and bag holder to get started for each family registered. You will need to have access to a drill and 5/16 inch drill bit, a small hammer and something to cook your collected sap in/on.
Bring the whole family or come learn and then share with them – either way this is a great activity for kids and adults to enjoy together.
Cost is $15/Family (includes 1 tap and bag collecting device) Register at
