WHEREAS Canada supplies about 70 % of the world’s pure maple syrup, with Ontario ranking third among producing provinces;
AND WHEREAS a proposed 25 % U.S. tariff on maple syrup and sugaring equipment threatens export revenues, may raise consumer prices, and heightens the risk of product adulteration;
AND WHEREAS scaling up Ontario production offers a practical buffer against these trade pressures;
AND WHEREAS the Town of The Blue Mountains (TBM), in the Great Lakes–St Lawrence forest region, has abundant sugar‑maple stands and strong agri‑tourism potential;
AND WHEREAS expanding maple operations supports TBM’s goals for rural economic diversification and low‑carbon agriculture, and aligns with recent federal and provincial government funding under the Maple Production Improvement Initiative;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council direct staff to:
- Work with the Ontario Maple Syrup Producers’ Association (OMSPA), the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), Grey County Economic Development, Grey Sauble Conservation Authority and Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority to create a Maple‑Syrup Expansion Information Kit that includes:
- Best practices for sustainable tapping and on‑farm processing;
- A consolidated list of current federal, provincial, county, and municipal funding programs; and
- Guidance on fraud prevention and product authenticity.
- Publish and promote the Information Kit via the Town’s website and other municipal channels to landowners, agricultural groups, and tourism operators within the Town of The Blue Mountains