BY LARRY SOBCZAK
EDITOR
The sap has started running again with spring-like temperatures upon us and that means it’s maple syrup season at the Wolcott Mill Metropark Farm Center.
Visitors to the Metropark located in Ray Township will be able observe how maple syrup is made the next couple of weekends.
The spring celebration culminates with a pancake breakfast, served with maple syrup of course, on the last Saturday of the month.
A guided tour of how maple syrup is made with be held 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., March 15, 16, 22 and 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. from farm center which is located at 65775 Wolcott Road in Ray Township.
Pre-registration is not required.
The free program involves a short hike to our sugar shack where you will see a wood-fired evaporator in action turning sap into a sweet treat — syrup.
This program is entirely outdoors and most of this program will be spent walking.
The planned path is dirt and gravel, level with a moderately steep hill at the start. No prior experience is necessary.
Along the way, visitors will discover interactive videos that weave together the story of maple syrup.
Maple items will be available for purchase at the farm center office.
On Saturday, March 29, maple syrup seekers can return to the farm center office to enjoy the results of the season at the “Pancake Breakfast at the Farm” from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Registration is required and the cost is $8 per person with children two years old and younger eating free.
Breakfast will include all you can eat pancakes, three sausage links, coffee, water, or Tang.
Before or after breakfast, visitors can take a wagon ride to the sugar bush to visit the wood-fired evaporator.
Real maple syrup will be available for purchase to enjoy on site or take home.
Participants should expect the program to last about an hour.
Registration is available at metroparks.com or call 586-752-5932 for questions or help with registration.
