M.S. student in Life Sciences Communication University of Wisconsin–Madison Madison, Wisconsin, United States
Maple syrup is a culturally and economically important non-timber forest product. We surveyed non-commercial, small commercial, and large commercial maple syrup producers in Wisconsin (n=657) to compare their motivations, interests, and barriers to expansion. We provide recommendations for outreach by forestry professionals, natural resource educators, and maple equipment suppliers.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participants will be able to describe the similarities and differences in the outreach needs of non-commercial, small commercial, and large commercial maple syrup producers in Wisconsin. Furthermore, participants will be able to articulate the implications for forestry professionals and educators who engage with maple syrup producers.
Upon completion, participants will be able to explain the cultural and economic importance of maple syrup as a non-timber forest product in the Midwest. This includes the Indigenous origins of maple syrup production, the relative scales of hobbyist and commercial operations, and the potential for growth of the industry.
