Ohio’s Maple Production – A Sweet Business

Ohio has a long history of maple syrup production. 

According to the Ohio Maple Producers Association, there are 12 maple-producing states in the United States and each year Ohio is ranked 4th or 5th in maple production. As the location of former glaciers, Ohio’s soil has the perfect mix of minerals and soil type for maple production. Maple trees are grown in both the northern and southern regions of the state and while the growing season may differ by three to four weeks, both produce a lot of syrup.

Ohio Maple Production Facts
  • The maple industry contributes $5 million to Ohio’s economy each year.
  • Ohio ranked in the top five nationally in 2013 producing 155,000 gallons, an increase of more than 50 percent from the 100,000 gallons produced in 2012.
  • About 900 producers across the state continue to innovate the maple production process.
  • Demand for maple products is greater than the state’s production. 
  • Ohio's maple syrup is a “super food” that has many health benefits naturally provided by antioxidants, minerals and vitamins.
Growing Ohio, an annual publication by the Ohio Department of Agriculture, adds that
agritourism also plays a role in the state’s maple success. Pancake breakfasts and maple syrup festivals throughout the state attract tourists and encourage them to purchase products and celebrate Ohio’s maple legacy.

For maple producers, the Ohio State University Extension will be hosting the 2014 Ohio Maple Days this week. Workshops are scheduled January 23 in Morrow County, January 24 for Wayne and Holmes counties and January 25 in Geauga County. A new international grading system for maple syrup and the Food and Drug Administration’s new food safety requirements for maple syrup producers will be two of the featured topics. For more information visit http://agnr.osu.edu/2014-ohio-maple-days.

Are you an Ohio maple producer? How do you enjoy Ohio’s maple production?

Photo obtained from: www.richardsmapleproducts.com

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