Press Release: Recovery Efforts for Northeast Michigan Maple Syrup Producers in Wake of Ice Storm
GRAYLING, MI – Northeast Michigan maple syrup producers are grappling with significant challenges following a devastating ice storm that struck the region, leaving many without power and damaging extensive forestland. On Friday, industry stakeholders met at the Devereaux Memorial Library, engaging with Michigan State Senators John Cherry and John Damoose, alongside Tim Boring from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), to discuss critical recovery needs.
Producers, including Michigan Maple Syrup Association President David Noonan, voiced concerns over delays in receiving grants from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) necessary for restoring their operations. Troy and Jennifer Richard from Gaylord highlighted the urgent need for assessments and interventions to save their sugarbush. “We have to save our trees,” Jennifer stated, emphasizing the importance of acting quickly to maintain tree health and ensure future sap production.
Forester and producer Ivan Witt added, “We need to retrieve our tubing before warmer weather sets in to prevent contamination.” Similarly, producer Dale Sumerix expressed trepidation about potential financial losses due to extensive tubing damage, stressing, “It’s a mess… we can’t afford to replace it all.”
The meeting underscored the value of the maple syrup industry to the regional economy, with producers expressing anxiety over potential losses. While acknowledging that recovery will require a significant financial commitment, the consensus was that state officials could facilitate timely assistance without solely relying on federal aid.
Senator Damoose reassured producers that bipartisan support exists to secure necessary funding. “We have to be effective, not just fast,” he noted, highlighting the unique challenges posed by the storm.
MDARD’s Boring emphasized the importance of understanding the specific needs of producers to enhance recovery efforts. As producers await further support, the future of Michigan’s cherished maple syrup industry remains uncertain but hopeful.
For further details, contact Kayla Wikaryasz at 989-358-5688 or kwikaryasz@TheAlpenaNews.com.
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