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2005 was the first year we tapped our trees on Knox Ridge. Lee had tapped trees in Auburn with his parents when he was younger. We have about 185 acres of maple trees and tapped only about 45 acres of those the first year with 1750 taps. We had 3215 taps in 2006. 2007 brought us to 4200 taps on 120 acres. 2008 brought us to 4900 taps on about 150 acres. 2009 we had 6325 taps. This year (2010) we had 8125 taps and have finished the 185 acres of sugarbush on the farm.
Our specialty is in making the confections from maple syrup. We are one of the largest commercial producers of maple sugar candy in the State of Maine. We make maple cream (aka maple butter) for spreading on toast, English muffins, pancakes, in a sandwich with peanut butter (MaryAnne’s favorite) or to eat right off a spoon (another family favorite). We also make molded maple sugar (often called candy), granulated sugar and a cinnamon maple sugar made with organic cinnamon. Our pure maple products are certified organic through MOFGA (Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association).
Our operation would not work without the help we have received from our parents. Lee’s parents have been a big help with their support through their maple supply business (Kinney Maple Supplies)-visit their website www.kinneymaplesupplies.com for everything you need to make your own family traditions. MaryAnne’s Mom helps with sales at various fairs throughout the state and at our sugarhouse during maple season or with watching the kids (unless they help at the sugarhouse too) while we are away from the farm.
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