New York’s maple production reaches 74-year record this year

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has revealed that the state has touched the 806,000gal maple production mark for this year, representing its highest rate of production in 74 years.

New York’s maple industry is reported to have grown by approximately 50% over the past five years and continues to maintain its position as the nation’s second-leading producer of fresh maple syrup.

Cuomo said: “The maple industry is one of New York’s most important agricultural sectors and it continues to grow year-over-year, infusing millions into the economy and bringing New York national recognition for its quality.

“The growth of the industry is an indicator of our fantastic producers, who work hard to make some of the best maple syrup in the country, and the innovative and unique maple products that consumers are demanding.”

New York’s maple production constituted approximately 19% of the US’s national total this year, according to the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).

The state’s maple producers are noted to have also benefited from a long season this year, which lasted 52 days compared to last year’s 43-day season.

A state fair is expected to be held next month to celebrate ‘Maple Day’, which will aim to introduce more consumers to New York maple products.

New York State Maple Producers Association executive director Helen Thomas said: “The fair is a great opportunity to introduce new maple products of New York to fair-goers and consumers.

“We are pleased to unveil newly developed Hoffmann’s Maple Sausage Snappy and Cornell University’s maple milk, which both use pure New York maple syrup.

“Free samples will be available in the Dairy Products building, the Dairy Birthing Center and Horticulture Building.”