Maple tour makes stop at Bissell Maple Farm
JEFFERSON — Maple syrup lovers had a chance to learn more about the production of the delicacy on Saturday as hundreds of people toured the production facilities of Bissell Maple Farm.
“This is the best year ever,” said Nate Bissell as he guided a group of 30 to 40 people through his facility that produces large quantities of syrup. He said the fluctuation in temperature is essential to get the trees running and the year was about perfect.
“We had good oscillation,” Bissell said of the cold nights followed by warm days that get the syrup moving. He said the season will continue in the weeks to come as well.
The Maple Producers of Northeast Ohio sponsor the annual tour that includes 20 facilities in Ashtabula and Geauga counties. Bissell Maple Farm is the only tour stop in Ashtabula County.
“Two years ago we worked twice as hard for half the syrup,” Bissell said of the weather challenges.
Bissell explained the difference between maple trees and the sweetness of the syrup they provide.
“A lot of the fields around here are red maple trees,” he said.
“The consumer wants the syrup dark. We built our business on dark,” he said.
Bissell has invested a lot in equipment to make maple syrup in bulk.
“This is the only maple syrup bottling line in Ohio,” he said.
Bissell said he applied his chemical engineering know-how to the production business and the use of bourbon barrels to make syrup.
A long line of pancake lovers waited for their special treat that included maple syrup added to the creations made by Kevin Lemon.
“I used to make pancakes every Saturday for my kids,” he said.
“I enjoy anything that helps the county,” he said of his willingness to make hundreds of pancakes.
Live music by Maple Mike also added to the experience for visitors.
The tour continues today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 82 W. Ashtabula St. in Jefferson.