Maple syrup season’s official with first tap

SOME PRODUCERS ARE ALREADY BUSY collecting sap, while others are waiting for some milder weather. Still, the local maple syrup season got its official launch last Friday at the traditional first-tap ceremony.

Members of the Waterloo-Wellington

Maple Syrup Producers and other guests gathered February 25 at Hoover’s Maple Syrup near Atwood. Farm operators Terry and Diane Hoover welcomed visitors to the long-awaited arrival of the in-person ceremonial event and the season it represents.

“Thank you for being here – it’s great to be able to host this event,” said Terry Hoover to those gathered at the farm, adding he’s hoping for a good crop of what has become more than just something to go with pancakes. “Maple syrup is no longer a topping – it’s an ingredient, so my saying is ‘it goes great on everything.’”

Producers are hopeful this season will be better than the last couple, with stronger yields. While some years have seen the sap runs completed by this point, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture reports mixed starts this season.

“In Waterloo-Wellington, some producers are waiting another week or so for the weather to move

Justine Fraser The ceremonial first tap was held Feb. 25 at the Atwood-area farm of producer Terry Hoover (second from left). He was joined by North Perth Mayor Todd Kasenburg, MP for Perth-Wellington John Nater and Perth-Wellington MPP Randy Pettapiece in marking the start of the maple syrup season.