Natural Science 0229 - Agricultural practicum: maple sugaring

The maple syrup industry is a cornerstone of New England's agricultural heritage and economy: connecting ecology, climate, and culture through one of the region's most iconic forest products. The practice of maple harvest has even deeper and earlier roots in Indigenous cultures of the Northeast. In Agricultural Practicum: Maple Sugaring, students will participate in reviving the campus maple enterprise, including assessment of the existing sugarbush, identifying and tapping trees, collecting sap and managing the boil in final syrup production. Alongside fieldwork, we will explore the cultural history of maple harvest and production, and the plant pathology and forest health issues that affect maples in New England, including pests, diseases, and the ecological impacts of a changing climate. Students will visit local maple operations to learn from industry experts sugaring techniques and production scales. This course integrates hands-on practicum with classroom-based learning, blending ecological insight, agricultural skill-building, historical context and community engagement. Enrollment is by instructor permission, please fill out this interest form https://forms.gle/qMrwL3T95Vj4RspYA Keywords:agriculture, botany, sustainability

Environments and Change Students should expect to spend 6-8 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time.