A worker checks on tap lines to ensure the flow is operating properly (WNG file photo).
Sugarhouses across the region are beginning to be filled with the sweet aroma of pure maple syrup drizzled over pancakes, French toast and waffles – a time honored New England tradition that never disappoints visitors.
“Many Massachusetts sugar makers have already begun boiling and have made some excellent syrup to begin the 2017 season,” said Winton Pitcoff, coordinator, Massachusetts Maple Producers Association (MMPA). “Our last several seasons have been record-breakers in Massachusetts, and we’re looking forward to another great year.”
The sugar maple tree is a sturdy native of the northeastern United States and was growing here in abundance long before the first colonists arrived, according to the MMPA. The settlers learned sugaring from the Indians, who collected sap in hollowed-out logs and steamed away the water by dropping in hot stones.
The MMPA also notes that properly cared for sugar maples can be tapped at 40 years of age and will yield sap for 100 years or more. The modern evaporator, with its wood or oil fire, helps the farmer control the quality of the product. Syrup is checked for density, color and taste before it is graded to federal standards and sold.
Maple sugaring events are popular with area residents, including the MapleFest & Craft Fair, now in its 32nd year, sponsored by the Chester Hill Association. The daylong event, with locations in Chester Center and along the Skyline Trail, is planned March 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“Chester is a beautiful area and we encourage area residents to make the trip,” said Kristin Baker, secretary of the Chester Hill Association, who along with her husband Ernie, have been involved in the event almost since its inception.
The morning begins with a country breakfast at the First Congregational Church, with continuous servings from 9 a.m. to noon. The menu includes pancakes topped with local maple syrup, ham, scrambled eggs, orange juice, and hot beverages. Tickets are $9 for adults and $5 for ages 10 and under. Children under the age of five are admitted free.
Maple syrup is being produced through the steaming process (WNG file photo)
“Our pancake batter is made from scratch,” said Baker, noting that in years’ past up to 300 area residents attend the breakfast.
Other highlights of the day include a craft fair at the schoolhouse, as well as two vendors showcasing locally made sheds and furniture in the church parking lot. Also, the Chester Fire Department will have a fire truck on display, wagon rides will be available to see sap boiling at the High Meadow Sugar House, a raffle is slated featuring 50 gifts from regional businesses, and a food cart starting late morning will feature Chester Chili, hot dogs, and hamburgers.
Entertainment will round out the afternoon with the Pioneer Valley Fiddlers performing at noon in the church sanctuary, followed by a magic show at 1:15.
“Our event is unique because we showcase the area and businesses, and raise funds for scholarships,” said Baker, adding, “If we have snow on the ground we will also offer snowmobile pull rides.”
For those meandering the many back roads of our region in search of sugarhouses, a recommended hill town stop is the Huntington Country Store at 70 Worthington Road. The delightful store also known locally as the “Home of the Wrapple,” has an endless array of gift ideas as well as countless maple-related products. A “wrapple” is a homemade pastry filled with apples and cinnamon and topped with a drizzle of frosting.
Owners Becky and Randy Butler welcome travelers near and far to enjoy their fresh baked maple scones, cream cheese coffeecake and cinnamon buns topped with maple frosting, and so much more.
“We also have a variety of candy and homemade goodies including maple-flavored lollipops, cream cookies, malted milk balls, raspberry smoked maple jam, and habanero infused maple syrup,” said Becky Butler.
For area residents ready to traverse the back roads, check out a list of sugarhouses by visiting www.massmaple.org. Also at the website, don’t miss a plethora of recipes ranging from maple sweet potato pecan burgers and maple cinnamon applesauce, to baked beans with maple and rum and maple bread pudding.
