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Poloncarz: Sugar shack tours available through April 10

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Mon, Mar 21st 2016 10:50 am

Residents, schools, civic groups invited to participate in 'hands-on' maple syrup production demonstrations

Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz and Erie County Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry Commissioner Daniel J. Rizzo reminded residents, schools, civic organizations and other community groups that anyone interested in taking a free tour of the county's sugar shack can do so over the next few weekends.

"The opportunity to get a firsthand look at how sap is turned into maple syrup is just another unique experience that is provided to the public by our Parks Department," Poloncarz said. "I have toured the facility myself and was very impressed with the operation and how our Parks Department allows people to take a hike and witness a demonstration of how the sap is made into syrup. I encourage everyone to take the tour."

Activities led by Erie County's park rangers include a tour (weather permitting) of the sugar shack property, located on the north side of Genesee Road, approximately five miles east of Route 219 and roughly four miles west of Route 16 in East Concord. Attendees will take a hike through the sugar bush to see how sugar maples are tapped, learn about how the sap is collected and then observe the maple syrup production demonstration.

In addition, fresh maple syrup will be available for purchase (cash only, please have exact change) for $10 per pint and $18 per quart. Attendees are asked to bring along a full water bottle, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy closed-toed footwear.

"We are producing large amounts of maple syrup and welcome anyone wanting to learn more about the production process," Rizzo said. "Tours are free and open to the public, so I encourage individuals and groups to give us a call to reserve a time to visit our facility."

Tour availability dates and times are as follows: 

  • Saturday, March 26 - 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
  • Sunday, March 27 - 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 2 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.
  • Sunday, April 3 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 9 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
  • Sunday, April 10 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.

For more information about the sugar shack tours, including how to make reservations, call 716-858-8355 or visit http://www2.erie.gov/parks/.

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