Annual Ontario Summer Tour – update
Each year in Ontario, an annual convention-style trade show brings together leaders and experts from the Ontario Maple Syrup Industry to discuss best practices and emerging topics in maple industry development. Typically, the agenda includes two days of tours to a diverse range of sugar camps and one day of technical presentations, tours to local sugar bushes, technical sessions, vendor exhibits, and social events. It’s a convivial event pertinent for everyone, from small producers, long-time producers, to backyard producers.
Recap of the Summer Tour 2023
CDL Sugaring Equipment took part in the 2023 OMSPA Summer Tour and Conference held in Perth, Ontario, hosted by the Lanark and District Maple Producers Association from July 19th to the 22nd of 2023 As the primary sponsor, CDL supported the event, which featured visits to several sugar camps and technical sessions, followed by a banquet dinner. The Friday’s event covered a range of topics from woodlot enhancement to operational strategies, marketing tactics, and ongoing education. Peter Sevelka, CDL Sales Representative and I, delivered a presentation on our hot selling Nano RO. The event, attended by over 300 individuals, welcomed both OMSPA members and non-members, with CDL showcasing its exhibit tailored to the needs of producers.
During the 2023 OMSPA Summer Tour, attendees had the privilege of visiting three outstanding maple enterprises. Adam Maple, owned by Jeremy & Zoe Adam, impressed with their 18,500-tap operation, Gunnebrooke Farm, managed by John and Joyce Gunnewiek and family, showcased their sustainable production methods with their 3600 taps. Lastly, Wheelers Pancake House, run by the Wheeler family, amazed visitors with their 40,000 tap maple operation. These visits provided invaluable insights into the innovative practices shaping the maple industry.
Upcoming Summer Tour 2024
The upcoming 2024 Summer Tour and Conference themed, ‘’Sweet Innovations,’’ is scheduled for July 17th to the 20th in North Bay, Ontario. Andy Straughan, President of the Algonquin District of OMSPA aims to foster networking opportunities among producers, equipment dealers, and speakers at this summers event. CDL Sugaring Equipment will, once again exhibit at this event, hosted by volunteers of the Algonquin District of OMSPA.
For more details on the 2024 Summer Tour, visit: www.omspasummertour.ca/
