By Scott Waterman, VT Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Vermont Governor Phil Scott tapped a maple tree at Buck Family Maple in Washington last month to recognize this year’s maple season. The Governor joined the Buck family and Vermont Secretary of Agriculture Anson Tebbetts for the traditional tapping of Vermont’s maple season and celebrate this important industry to the state’s economy and culture.
“Celebrating Vermont’s maple industry and the hard-working families that produce the best maple in the world is always a highlight,” said Governor Scott. “The Bucks, and so many families like theirs, make sure our state is producing the highest quality maple syrup. Their hard work and dedication are why we continue to lead the nation in maple production and excellence.”
Buck Family Maple began over 25 years ago. Today, James and his father John make syrup from 2000 trees on their Washington, Vermont maple farm.
“As we continue the maple sugaring history of our land, we hold a special place in our hearts and minds for the people who cared for this land long before us,” said James Buck. “Without their care and thoughts for future generations, the trees they tapped all those years ago would not be part of our forest today.”
The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets recognizes the importance of the state’s maple industry to our economy and working lands culture. The Agency continues to work to support our producers with marketing programs like the Vermont Maple 100, labeling and product quality inspections and funding to support the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers Association Sugarhouse Certification Program.
“Vermont is the leading maple syrup producer in the nation because of families like the Buck’s,” Agriculture Secretary Anson Tebbetts said. “They help Vermont maintain that high quantity and quality of maple production despite recent weather challenges, and the Agency is working to support our sugar makers as they adapt to these changes. We celebrate the sweetness of Vermont’s maple producers and products!”
