March in Minnesota means the sun is higher in the sky, and plants are getting ready to come back from dormancy. When that combines with a cycle of daytime temperatures in the 30s and 40s and overnight temps below freezing, one gets perfect the conditions for maple sap to start flowing.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will offer programs at five state parks to introduce people to the fun of making maple syrup, as well as the equipment needed and the processes used. Participants will learn how to identify right kind of tree and tap it for sap and, finally, how to boil the sap until it is sweet enough to serve with breakfast.
The DNR will offer its programs at:
Fort Snelling State Park: March 1, 14, 15, 29
Lake Bemidji State Park: March 14
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park: March 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29
Whitewater State Park: March 7, 14, 21, 28
Wild River State Park: March 21, April 4, and April 11
Due to space limitations, some programs require advanced registration. For the complete event schedule with program details, and more information about how to tap trees and make maple syrup, visit mndnr.gov/maplesyrup.
Maple syrup programs at Minnesota state parks are free, but vehicle permits are required to enter the parks ($7 for a one-day permit or $35 for a year-round permit). Visitors can buy a permit online at mndnr.gov/permit, or at the park’s ranger station during open hours.
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