DM - Community decision making (MU Extension)

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    Marketing maple syrup in Missouri
    (University of Missouri--Columbia. Extension Division, 2024) Spell, Alan; Dietterle, Luke
    This guide aims to assist existing and new tree-sugaring enthusiasts with an interest in selling locally-made syrup by covering the basics of product marketing. The guide is structured around four marketing principles: product, pricing, place and promotion.
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    Missouri maple syrup : hobby to sales
    (University of Missouri--Columbia. Extension Division, 2024) Dietterle, Luke; Spell, Alan
    Maple syrup, enjoyed on pancakes, in cooking recipes and in cocktails, can be made in Missouri thanks to an abundance of Maple (Acer spp.) trees found in many of parts of the state. Sugar Maples (Acer Saccharum) are the typical tree used in large-scale syrup production, but other common maples (silver, black, red, etc.) and some other species, such as Black Walnut (Juglans Nigra), can also be tapped. Maple syrup production is a family pastime for many Missourians, who either consume their syrup at home or gift their products to others. However, strong demand for local syrup can turn a hobby into extra income for those interested in scaling up their operations. A 2022 survey of Missouri maple producers revealed that respondents produced 480 gallons of syrup, with a median of 10 gallons per respondent; this is likely a conservative estimate. One in four survey respondents sold syrup in 2022 or the previous season, while others produced smaller amounts as a hobby. However, most producers (57%) had either sold syrup at some point or had an interest in sales. With the right knowledge, equipment and environmental conditions, tree-sugaring enthusiasts can earn income from their pursuits to supplement their earnings or — in some cases — make it a business. A companion to MU Extension’s Marketing Maple Syrup in Missouri, this guide is structured to help maple sugaring hobbyists navigate the process of growing their operation beyond a hobby and into a revenue-generating endeavor. This guide includes information on how to identify capacity and select trees to tap; technology and processing best practices; and tips from active producers on steps taken to break even and begin generating revenue.
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    Marketing maple syrup in Missouri
    (University of Missouri--Columbia. Extension Division, 2023) Spell, Alan; Dietterle, Luke
    An abundant supply of maple trees in the Midwest, particularly sugar maples, gives Missourians the opportunity to tap into a local treat: homemade syrup. While maple trees are the focus for most syrup producers, other trees such as walnuts can also be tapped. The popularity of tree sugaring, the art of tapping and processing tree sap into syrup, is growing in the lower Midwest as seen in the increasing popularity of social platforms dedicated to sugaring such as the Missouri Maple Syrup Facebook page. This growth was also documented in the 2022 survey of syrup producers in this region. Missouri respondents produced 480 gallons of syrup that year, significantly more than the 333 gallons reported in the 2017 Census of Agriculture. The 2022 survey found that one in four respondents sold syrup that year or the prior season, while others made smaller amounts for family, friends, or gifting. However, most producers had either sold syrup at some point or had an interest in sales (57%). Tree sugaring is a tasty hobby for many, but it can also provide income for those interested in supplementing their earnings or making it part of a land-based business. This guide aims to assist existing and new tree-sugaring enthusiasts with an interest in selling locally-made syrup by covering the basics of product marketing. The guide is structured around four marketing principles: product, pricing, place and promotion.
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    Encouraging return migration and population retention in rural communities
    (University of Missouri--Columbia. Extension Division, 2023) Rahe, Mallory L.; Washburn, TaylorAnn
    "This publication highlights findings from a recent MU Extension study that investigated attitudes on rural living preferences among northwest Missouri residents. Rural leaders in the study region provided the impetus for this investigation as they sought to receive input on how to attract newly footloose workers. The study found that motivators for migration to rural areas include social ties, community attachment and employment opportunities. Understanding motivating factors for migration helps guide community leaders in proactively attracting and retaining new residents to depopulating, low-amenity rural areas. Additionally, insights can be leveraged by policymakers as they encourage population retention and growth in rural communities."--First page.
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    Introduction to local food systems
    (University of Missouri--Columbia. Extension Division, 2022) Hendrickson, Mary; Hultine Massengale, Sarah
    "This guide explores the concept of local food systems and provides resources to help farmers, consumers and communities develop food systems that provide for profitable, thriving farms and businesses; steward our natural resources; and strengthen community relationships in rural and urban Missouri."--Page 1.