Maple Tapping
Media Contact:
Sarah Clark, Public Relations Specialist
630-719-5768,
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
For Immediate Release
DISCOVER WHERE MAPLE SYRUP COMES FROM
LISLE, IL (Feb 20, 2013) – Experience maple tapping and the making of maple syrup in all its stages at our annual Maple Tapping & Pancake Breakfast.
Start your adventure with a hike down Thornhill Trail to our tapped sugar maple tree, where you can see for yourself how sap flows from the tree and is collected. “Even parents are impressed to see the sap dripping from the tree,” says Jane Warfel, youth and family programs coordinator. You can even taste the sap right there at the tree.
Its taste may surprise you, says Lesley Kolaya, manager of youth and family programs. “The sap is very watery tasting, with a hint of flavor. Tasting the sap gives you an appreciation for the rest of the process.” While you’re at the maple tree, look for the tree’s scars from past tappings.
Next, travel down the trail to the auger demonstration, where you learn how to safely drill into a maple without damaging the tree. It’s a favorite stop for many kids, where you can try your own hand at the auger on a fallen log. Then, head to the Shelter to see how sap is turned into the maple syrup we all know. As you learn about its history and nutrition, you can sample syrup at various points in the process.
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for our pancake picnic. Pick up your four silver dollar pancakes with a side of bacon then grab samples of four different grades of syrup to taste, by themselves or on your pancakes. Find a seat by the roaring fire and enjoy.
“Most people only ever taste the lower grades of syrup, as the highest grades are only available directly from sugar bush farms and aren’t sold in stores,” says Warfel. “But we have the highest grade, called Fancy, for you to taste.”
Join us for Maple Tapping & Pancake Picnics on Saturdays, March 2, 9, or 16, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The cost is $18 per person for members, $25 for nonmembers (admission included). Space is limited. For more information or to register, visit mortonarb.org/calendar.
The Morton Arboretum is an internationally recognized outdoor tree museum on 1,700 acres. Plant collections, scientific research and education programs support the mission to plant and conserve trees and other plants for a greener, healthier and more beautiful world. Throughout natural landscapes are specialty gardens, 16 miles of trails and nine miles of roads. Other offerings include tree-focused events, activities and services for adults, children, professionals and communities. The Arboretum welcomes more than 800,000 visitors annually and serves 34,000 member households. Located 25 miles west of Chicago in Lisle, Illinois, the Arboretum is open daily 7 a.m. until sunset. Learn more at www.mortonarb.org.
# # #