Massachusetts Agricultural Highlights, 1988 



MAPLE 



PRODUCTION: 44,000 gallons 



VALUE: $1,610,000 



PRODUCERS and 

 PROCESSORS: 200 



MARKET OUTLET: primarily retail sales 



Distribution of the Maple Industry 



COUNTY PERCENT of PRODUCERS and PROCESSORS 



Berkshire To 



Franklin 43 



Hampshire 27 



Hampden 8 



Worcester 8 



Other counties 4 



Maple Syrup: Percentage by Type of Sale 



1986 1987 1988 



59 73 64 



29 21 18 



12 6 18 



FACTS: 



• Maple production is highly concentrated in areas within Franklin and Hampshire counties. Located within 

 are 70% of the state's 200 producers and processors. 



• Syrup production potential is 70,000 gallons. 



• Fifty percent of production is sold during sugaring season. The balance of the crop is sold between 

 Thanksgiving and Christmas. 



• More sales are shifting into the retail category. Many producers are increasing sales through mail order. 

 Sources: Massachusetts Maple Producers Association and New England Agricultural Statistics (USDA) 



43 



