Governor Janet Mills tapped a maple tree on the Blaine House lawn Tuesday celebrating an annual tradition to promote Maine maple syrup and highlight its contributions to Maine’s economy. Governor Mills was joined by Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Commissioner Amanda Beal, legislators, and Maine maple producers among other guests.
“Maine Maple Sunday is one of my favorite times of year, and I am proud to promote this champion food product and celebrate an industry that contributes so much to our economy,” said Governor Mills. “Our state had approximately 1.87 million sugar taps statewide last year and produced 539,000 gallons of maple syrup. I encourage all Maine families to visit your local sugarhouses and try one of Maine’s best homegrown products!”
“Maine has a long-standing maple sugar and syrup tradition. Our maple producers take great pride in the quality and purity of their products,” said Commissioner Beal. “Maine’s maple trees also provide an added opportunity for value-added production for many Maine farms during their off-season.”
“High in antioxidants and vital minerals, Maine maple syrup is a natural sweetener and a healthy alternative to processed sugar,” added Governor Mills.
On Maple Sunday, held this year on March 24th, more than 70 participating sugarhouses throughout Maine will open their doors to the public. Maine’s maple industry contributes an estimated $48.7 million to the state’s economy and is powered by 805 full-and-part-time jobs. Maine’s maple industry is also the third-largest maple syrup producer in the nation.