Sugaring with the Butler Family

Dear Fellow Vermonter,

Maple sugaring is one of Vermont’s oldest and proudest traditions. Since 1916, Vermont has led the U.S. in syrup production with our 3,000 sugar houses producing more than 50 percent of the country’s real maple syrup.

Recently, we went behind the scenes at Moose Mountain Maple in Underhill to learn more about their sugaring operation. Today, the farm is owned and operated by William Butler, the sixth generation in the Butler family to run the business. I hope you enjoy the video about their farm, their story, and their passion for Vermont sugaring – and meet the seventh generation of Butler sugarmakers.

While Vermont continues to lead the nation in syrup production, many studies are telling us that the climate crisis is threatening the industry, from shorter and earlier tapping seasons to increased risk to tree health. Now, more than ever, it’s important that we protect not only our planet, but also the long-held and beloved practices, like sugaring, that have such a special place in our economy, our identity, and our heritage as a rural state and a community.

Sincerely,