New Brunswick maple syrup producers will receive funding this year to carry out silviculture operations on sugar bush stands.
"For the past two years, the provincial government provided $300,000 annually for thinning and spacing of sugar bushes to enhance the health and productivity of maple operations," Natural Resources Minister Wally Stiles said June 21. "I am pleased that $350,000 has been committed this year to continue this important work."
Stiles said the New Brunswick Maple Syrup Association requested additional funding, that will help create employment for thinners now and increase maple syrup production over the long term.
"This is an important and historical industry for New Brunswick and our government is committed to supporting both existing and new producers in the development of their businesses," the minister said. "We recognize the contribution maple syrup producers make to our provincial economy and we want to see these operations become more productive and profitable."
Funding for the initiative is being provided through the Regional Development Corporation's Total Development Fund.
New Brunswick ranks among the three largest producers of maple syrup products in the world. About 300 operations produce 1.8 million kg of syrup each year, providing employment for more than 2,000 seasonal workers. Syrup and value-added products are sold locally, across Canada and in more than 60 countries around the world.
