Kentucky has an abundance of maple trees and the rural parts of the state are in need of new enterprises to drive economic growth. In an effort to expand the maple syrup industry and to help promote the commodity within the state and region, the Letcher County Extension Service, in partnership with local leadership and the Harlan Co. Extension Service has worked to form the Kentucky Maple Syrup Association. The association's focus is on marketing maple syrup and various maple-based, value-added products, like candy, maple cotton-candy, candied nuts, and flavorings for cooking and beverages. The association has set goals of getting maple syrup added as a commodity at the Kentucky State Fair and taking a leading role in hosting the annual Maple Syrup School held at the Letcher County Extension Office. The association already hs members from 10 counties across the Bluegreass.