Kentucky Maple Syrup Industry Grows with Modern Farming

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky maple syrup supporters gathered with officials from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture at Blue Ends Farm in Shelbyville to tap maple trees and officially recognize February as Maple Syrup Month in the Commonwealth.

“Maple syrup production has a storied history in Kentucky,” Commissioner Shell said. “Through the years, production may have lessened but it’s making a resurgence and Kentucky is certainly blessed to see that. It adds that sweetness to Kentucky agriculture.”

According to the Kentucky Maple Syrup Association (KMSA), the roots of maple production in Kentucky date back to Native American communities, who processed maple sap into sugar rather than syrup. European settlers later adopted and refined these practices, producing both sugar and syrup.

Interest declined over time, but maple production regained importance during the 1940s when sugar rationing prompted rural families to once again tap trees for natural sweeteners. After rationing ended, production slowed, but in recent years it has returned once more.

Today’s revival is being driven by modern equipment, new market opportunities, and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset among farmers. “While Kentucky sits just south of traditional maple regions, our forests are full of maple trees representing a largely untapped resource with the potential to grow the state’s agricultural economy through syrup production,” said John Duvall, KMSA president.

KMSA now includes about 50 members statewide, from Eastern to Western Kentucky. The organization promotes growth through educational programs, farm tours, and producer outreach, with support from the University of Kentucky Forestry Extension, UK’s Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, and the Kentucky Division of Forestry.

Duvall noted that more than 30 tree species can be tapped for syrup, and production does not require cutting trees, making it compatible with forest conservation. With more than 100 producers operating across Kentucky, the industry aligns well with goals for sustainable agriculture, agritourism, and value-added products.

“It’s amazing what can be made out of the maple syrup,” Duvall said. “From candies to maple covered nuts and even maple cotton candy, if you use refined sugar in your recipes, you can replace it with maple syrup.”

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