Success StoryFarm profits really can grow in the trees
Farm profits really can grow in the trees
Author: Chris Ammerman
Planning Unit: Grant County CES
Major Program: Forest Education: Health, Management, and Utilization
Plan of Work: Fixating the Focus on the Local Food Supply
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
Grant County, Kentucky, with its rich woodland resources, has historically been rooted in agriculture. According to the 2017 USDA Census of Agriculture, the county had 811 farms covering 96,780 acres, with 20% classified as woodland . However, economic challenges and a decline in traditional farming practices have prompted the community to seek alternative, sustainable sources of income.
Recognizing the untapped potential of maple syrup production, local organizations, including the University of Kentucky's Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, initiated efforts to educate and empower residents. This led to the introduction of maple syrup workshops aimed at teaching sustainable syrup production techniques .
The first maple syrup workshop was held in Grant County, at Hyde"N Bee Farm, attracting over 30 participants, including farmers, landowners, and entrepreneurs. The workshop covered essential topics such as tree identification, tapping techniques, sap collection, syrup boiling, syrup bottling and marketing strategies. Hands-on demonstrations provided attendees with practical experience, fostering confidence in their ability to produce and market maple syrup.
The workshop's success was evaluated through contact with attendees. 75% acquired materials for tapping and collecting from maple tree. 35% of participants began tapping their own maple trees during the season. 40% intend to market local through farmers' markets and social media, with 20% indicated that they had already had orders for Grant County Maple Syrup. The workshop spurred interest in value-added products, such as maple-infused baked goods and candies, further diversifying income streams for local producers.
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