How better to launch a brand new commodity day and recognize producers at all corners of the state than to contact the UK Cooperative Extension Service? That was the thinking when the Kentucky Maple Syrup Association partnered with UK Cooperative Extension and forestry department to promote the budding maple syrup industry. The group recognized that Extension has agricultural agents in every county across the state who know better than anyone what is being produced in their counties and that have personal relationships with those producers that are critical to success. As the Agents reached out to producers who might be interested in participating in the Maple Day, specialists from the UK forestry department created a web-page showcasing the producers, their products, locations and contact information. This information served as the conduit between producers and the customers who would visit their farms. The Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture, Ryan Quarles, and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture would also instrumental by declaring the first weekend in February as Kentucky Maple Day.

A follow-up survey of producers revealed that 10 producers participated in the inaugural event. Over 500 Kentuckians visited a local procer, buying maple syrup, maple candy, baked goods and other value-added products. One quarter of producers sold out all of their inventory and 80% received orders for products. Customers were able to take tours into the sugar woods, see the process of making syrup and learned about how they could get involved in the Kentucky Maple industry themselves.