Missouri maple syrup : hobby to sales
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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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Archive version. For the most recent information see extension.missouri.edu.
OpenAccess.
OpenAccess.
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 License.
Provided for historical documentation only. Check Missouri Extension and Agricultural Experiment Station websites for current information.
Provided for historical documentation only. Check Missouri Extension and Agricultural Experiment Station websites for current information.