Maple conference draws biggest crowd yet

A record 1,122maple enthusiasts made the trip to the inaugural Mid-Winter Maple Classic.

Despite the mild weather this past weekend, anticipation of melting snow and the sweet smell of boiling maple sap were on the minds of “Fairgoers” as the NewYork State Fair played host site to the inaugural Mid-Winter Maple Classic. A record number of 1,122 maple enthusiasts from 18 states and Canada made the trek to Geddes to learn about all aspects of a growing maple industry.

Sponsored by the New York State Maple Producers Association in partnership with the New York State FFA Alumni Association, the Maple Classic featured 66 maple trade show vendors throughout New England and Canada and 45 workshop presentations conducted by the best maple industry experts from around the world.

“The transition of the maple conference to the maple producer’s association in partnership with the State FFA Alumni Association is a win for everyone because now we can support all FFA chapters in New York state,” said NYS FFA Alumni President Paulette Schiebel. “The State FFA Alumni Association plans to use maple conference proceeds to provide FFA student scholarships and FFA chapter grant opportunities for New York FFA chapters.” The NYS FFA Alumni assisted with planning, managing, and catering the two-day affair.

In addition to the adult or-