The story of our maple syrup production begins in 2009. Being a self-sufficient, sweet-toothed, penny-pinching Dutchman, I became determined to make my own maple syrup. We had maples and the time (Christal may disagree with the latter), so I thought “Why not? There’s not much else to do in the late winter months.” After researching the process and purchasing 20 traditional spiles, our first maple season was underway. After the first taste of our own maple syrup, we never looked back. 2010 saw the purchase of 100 additional taps, tubing systems, and stainless evaporating pans. During the third year, we expanded to 300 taps and for the 2012 season, we set 335 taps, and we also purchased a commercial evaporator. In 2015 we set 460 taps and produced over 217 gallons of syrup. 2016 saw below normal production, and 2017 was nearly a complete bust due to above average temps. We were back to normal production in 2018, processing around 120 gallon. 2019 was an above average year with 180 gallons of syrup. We got out 600 taps in 2020 but because of a late start in January and warmer temperatures we only produced 177 gallons. In 2022, we lost track of how many taps we added but we processed just over 217 gallons of syrup.
Perhaps one of our favorite aspects of sugaring is that it is a family endeavor. As soon as they could carry tools or haul firewood for the evaporator in their little red wagon, our kids became part of the process. They learn both the work involved in and satisfaction of creating a quality product. It also serves to develop an appreciation for our connection to the land, as well as our agrarian roots. Not only does it have the capacity to teach a Biblical work ethic and stewardship, it provides time for us to build relationships with each other. Psalm 127:3 tells us “Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.” It is our heart’s desire to cherish the gift He has given us, and that by our children spending time with us, they would see the Father’s love through us and in us, and develop a personal, soul-saving relationship with the Father.
Perhaps one of our favorite aspects of sugaring is that it is a family endeavor. As soon as they could carry tools or haul firewood for the evaporator in their little red wagon, our kids became part of the process. They learn both the work involved in and satisfaction of creating a quality product. It also serves to develop an appreciation for our connection to the land, as well as our agrarian roots. Not only does it have the capacity to teach a Biblical work ethic and stewardship, it provides time for us to build relationships with each other. Psalm 127:3 tells us “Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.” It is our heart’s desire to cherish the gift He has given us, and that by our children spending time with us, they would see the Father’s love through us and in us, and develop a personal, soul-saving relationship with the Father.