PENFIELD – March is Maple Sugaring Month at Parker Dam State Park and you can come learn how real maple syrup is made.
Learn the sweet story of maple sugaring, how it was discovered, how it was made years ago and how you can make it yourself today. Also, learn how to identify maple trees in the winter, how to choose the right trees for tapping, where to place the taps and so on.
Attendees will find out how large, modern sugar operations produce syrup and other maple products; and how Parker Dam State Park’s small operation produces this tasteful treat. The upgrades to the Sugar Shack have been started, so if you haven’t been out in a while, come see the changes.
A few lucky participants will get to tap a maple tree, gather in the sap, and help out. Free pure maple syrup taste samples for all visitors, allowing attendees to discover the tradition.
Programs will be held each Saturday and Sunday throughout March at 2 p.m. Meet at the park’s Sugar Shack, near Pavilion 7, just past the Cabin Road. Schools and organized groups may schedule a Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday maple sugaring program (March only) by calling (814) 765-0630 or e-mailing: cahuber@pa.gov.
On Sunday, March 18, the Friends of Parker Dam, a park volunteer and booster organization, will be sponsoring a Soup and Sandwich Sale from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the park’s Beach House.
Come for a variety of homemade soups and grilled cheese sandwiches, as well as hot chocolate, cookies, and your own copy of the Friends’ new cookbook. Soup and sandwich combos will be $3, and individually- $1.50 each.
You can now keep up to date on what’s happening at Parker Dam State Park by looking for “Parker Dam State Park” on Facebook.
*You can find more information about state park programs and special events by logging on to the Bureau of State Parks website at www.VisitPAParks.com, and clicking on “Events Calendar”.
“The primary purpose of Pennsylvania State Parks is to provide opportunities for enjoying healthful outdoor recreation and serve as outdoor classrooms for environmental education.”
Access for People with Disabilities
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks:
888-PA-PARKS (voice)
717-558-2710 (local or international voice)
888-537-7294 (TTY)
717-558-2711 (local or international TTY)
711 (AT&T Relay Services)
