PORTLAND (AP) — The quirky winter weather has some maple syrup operators wringing their hands and foraging through pantries and cellars as Maine Maple Sunday approaches.
The Portland Press Herald reports that some sugar houses may have to buy or borrow syrup and tap last year’s overstock as thousands descend on sugar houses statewide March 22.
Maine Maple Sunday is the biggest annual event for the state’s $48.7 million maple syrup industry — the third largest in the county.
For sap to flow, freezing nighttime temperatures need to be followed by day time temperatures in the 40- 45-degree range.
The newspaper quotes U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics showing last year’s season was a short one as well — running from March 21 to April. 19.
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