King bill would boost funding for maple syrup producers

File photo / Jim Neuger A bill sponsored by U.S. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, would expand federal marketing and research funding for maple syrup producers.

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By Renee Cordes

Maine maple syrup producers would be able to tap into additional federal funding for marketing and research under a bill introduced by U.S. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine.

The Market Access, Promotion and Landowner Education Support for Your Regionally Underserved Producers Act would increase funding from $20 million to $30 million for the federal maple support program.

The program supports the U.S. maple syrup industry through research and education, natural resource sustainability and marketing of maple syrup and sap-related products.

“There’s nothing better than real Maine maple syrup on Sunday morning pancakes, except maybe the other six days of the week,” said King. “The Maple Syrup Act would make significant investments in the hardworking maple syrup producers, sugar farms and small maple businesses across Maine.”

Co-sponsors of the legislation were U.S. Sens. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).

King said he looks forward to working with his peers to ensure the maple syrup bill is included in the upcoming Farm Bill package.

Maine’s independent senator has been a longtime advocate for the maple syrup industry.

Earlier this year, King joined fellow senators in the unanimous passage of a resolution designating March 26, 2023, as Maine Maple Sunday, recognizing the 40th anniversary of the annual statewide event at held at sugar houses statewide. The resolution also recognized the importance of maple syrup production to Maine’s economy and culture.

Maine is home to more than 520 maple syrup producers and 800 full- and part-time syrup jobs, with an annual syrup output of 575,000 gallons valued at $21.6 million. The industry is estimated to generate $55.6 million annually in economic activity.

After Vermont and New York, the Pine Tree State is the nation’s third-largest producer of maple syrup, and accounts for 17% of all U.S.-produced maple syrup.