Sugarbrush 2009 at Blandford Nature Center

I just got this flyer telling all about the event.

Blandford Nature Center Presents: Sugarbush 2009

Grand Rapids, MI –There are two definitions of maple syrup: "a commercial variety of such syrup, often mixed with cane sugar or some other sweetening agent," and " a syrup produced by partially boiling down the sap of the sugar maple or of any of several other maple trees." If you prefer artificial sugars added to your syrup, then don't bother coming to Blandford Nature Center's Sugarbush Festival during the month of March. At Sugarbush Festival, only pure, natural syrup is found.

This unique festival, drawing crowds from all over Michigan, shows how maple syrup is brought from tree to table. Through guided or self-led tours down the Sugarbush trail, the history and experience of tree tapping will be unraveled. A visit to the sugarhouse, or “sugar shack,” is open for guests to see firsthand how sap is transformed into syrup. Fresh, pure maple syrup, as well as other locally made maple treats, can be purchased throughout Sugarbush Festival at Blandford's General Store.

Blandford’s 100% pure maple syrup will also be available to sample at the annual Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, March 28 from 8am until noon at CA Frost Environmental Academy. This popular annual event is perfect for the whole family- featuring senior discounts, games and crafts to entertain children while they eat. After the breakfast, stop by the Sugarbush Festival at Blandford to take a tour, visit the Heritage Village, and explore the Interpretive and Wildlife Centers.

Sugarbush runs throughout the month of March, including every Saturday (March 7, 14, 21, 28) from 10am – 4pm and Sunday (March 8, 15, 22) from 12pm – 4pm. Guided tours will be available Saturdays only, while self guided tours will be available Saturdays and Sundays. On Saturday, March 28th, Sugarbush hours will be extended to 9am until 4pm. During this time, our Heritage buildings, Wildlife Center and Interpretive Center will be open, and guided tours will be available. Admission is free every weekend except March 28th, where admission will be $5 for adults, $3 for children. Admission to the Pancake Breakfast is $8 for adults, $5 for children (3 to 12) and $7 for seniors (60 and older) and includes admission to the festival.

There are still openings for scheduling your large group or school during M-F tours. For a more personal experience for PreK-2 students, Blandford Environmental Education Program 6th graders (BEEPS) can lead your group through the Sugarbush. Ask for more details when registering.

For more information on this program, or for details of other events and programs at Blandford Nature Center, please visit www.blandfordnaturecenter.org, e-mail info@blandfordnaturecenter.org or call 616-735-6240.