Students will explore past and present methods for producing “liquid gold.” We will walk a history trail of maple syrup production, culminating in an overview of how we make maple syrup inside our sugar shack. Students will have the opportunity to tap a tree, carry yokes and buckets, and collect sap if conditions permit. We will also taste syrup we have made at our sugar bush.

Notes for teachers:

The sugar bush is located at 295 Laurelwood Drive in Waterloo. It is hidden in the Grand River Conservation Area maintenance yard. There are many trailers parked there. Do not go to the Laurel Creek Nature Centre.

Our sugar bush is located beside a lake, and conditions can be quite windy. Students should dress warmer than they think necessary. If the temperature is forecast to be less than 5 degrees Celsius, students should wear snowpants. Snowpants seems to be the clothing accessory that determines the physical comfort of students on cold days. Parents should also be warned, as many show up for maple syrup field trips dressed poorly for the conditions. We have no heated facilities at the sugar bush.

Some of the sugar bush activities require students to have partners. If you think that having those partners predetermined would expedite things, feel free to do so.

A few years ago, we made a fun music video at the sugar shack. It can be seen here.Sugar Shacksnowy Laurel Creek 108