New York keeps No. 2 spot in maple-syrup production

New York retained its position as the second biggest producer of maple syrup in the U.S. in 2014, behind Vermont, according to figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

New York maple producers generated 546,000 gallons of maple syrup with 2.2 million taps, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The Empire State edged out No. 3 maple-syrup producer, Maine, by just 1,000 gallons.

The figures represent the third best year for maple production in New York in the past 20 years, Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office said in a news release.

The state’s maple-syrup industry had many challenges this year after the “long, cold” months of February and March, which produced several periods with no production, the release stated.

The lack of production was a “concern” for producers who use older technology, such as buckets and gravity tubing. As sap production “ceased” during the winter months, tap holes closed and sap stopped running, according to Cuomo’s office.

Producers using newer vacuum tubing were able to keep the tap holes healthy and functioning, enabling maple-syrup production over the entire season.

Mother Nature reminds New York maple producers annually that she is in charge and that environmental factors “largely” determine the percentages of maple-syrup colors produced, Dwayne Hill, president of the New York State Maple Producers Association, said in the news release.

“This year, there was a low percentage of light amber syrup, with most of the crop comprising medium and dark colors. This is a good thing for consumers as the most popular flavors of maple are medium and dark amber,” said Hill.

New York maple products, including syrups and creams, are available at Taste NY stores on the New York State Thruway, Cuomo’s office said.

They are also featured at Taste NY events throughout the state, providing exposure and increased sales for the state’s maple producers.

Many maple producers carry the Pride of NY label on their products, which are available at various grocery stores and farmers’ markets, according to the governor’s office.

Contact Reinhardt at ereinhardt@cnybj.com