Local maple syrup producers getting ready for first tapping

A sure sign that spring is just about ready to shrug winter off its shoulders in this part of the world is the arrival of the maple syrup season.

On March 1, local maple syrup producers herald the coming of the season with their ceremonial first tapping at Rainbow Woods, the Norland farm of Paul and Eleanor Reed.

First tapping has become a tradition in Central Ontario, moving from sugar bush to sugar bush in Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough and Haliburton counties and Durham Region. In 2019, it was in Pontypool.

Though the date of the first sap run is unpredictable, first tapping is scheduled for just before it is likely to begin so that members of the Haliburton-Kawartha Maple Syrup Producers Association can get away from their bushes to share in the celebration.

One doesn’t have to be a member to take part in the festivities, which are simple enough. The event is open to the public. Fans of maple may gather at Rainbow Woods at 2 pm for a ceremonial tapping and seasonal blessing before visiting the sugar shack for hot drinks and maple treats. Visitors can go for a walk in the bush and ask all the questions they want.

The Reed farm is at 65 Ripley’s Way, 600 metres north of City of Kawartha Lakes Rd. 45, about 15 kilometres west of Norland, five kilometres east of Uphill. Watch for solar panels at the intersection.