Maple Program

Maple Field Trips at the Extension Learning Farm

Engaging directly with food systems is increasingly difficult for many families, and the North Country's sugaring season is no exception. Without a sugar bush or sugarhouse, it can be a challenge to get involved. However, community members now have the opportunity to experience this unique aspect of our local agriculture!

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Experiential Learning Opportunities

The Extension Learning Farm at Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) offers experiential learning opportunities for classrooms, allowing students to connect with the curriculum in a hands-on, real-world setting. Field trips are customized to meet the needs of each classroom while always including a variety of interactive lessons and activities led by our experienced staff, interns, and volunteers. Our programs are designed to align with school standards and provide meaningful educational outcomes.

Here are some examples of how we integrate curriculum topics with our programs:

• STEM concepts related to sustainable energy, animal science, and plant science.
• Career explorations within agriculture in St. Lawrence County.
• Understanding global and local food systems.
• Literature connections such as Hatchet and experiencing outdoor survival firsthand.
• And much more!

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March Maple Madness: Field Trip Details

Schools are encouraged to visit the Extension Learning Farm on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, starting at the end of February through the beginning of April, during our annual March Maple Madness. During this time, the sugarhouse will be in full operation, offering a rich, hands-on educational experience.

Field trips are available for all age groups, from pre-kindergarten to college-aged students. Participants will learn about:

• Tree physiology
• The science behind sap flow
• The history and economic impact of the maple industry

The cost for school tours is $6.00 per student, with chaperones attending for free (limited to 10 chaperones per field trip).

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Weekend Tours

Weekend tours are also available by request. The cost is $6.00 per person, and participants should call the Extension Office to schedule a tour time and date.

What to Expect:

• Dress for outdoor exploration in the sugar bush and time spent in the sugarhouse.
• Enjoy a taste of pure maple syrup, the highlight of every visit!

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Program Packages Available

We offer a variety of educational packages tailored to different themes:

• Package #1: Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resources – Survival Lesson
• Package #2: Maple Lesson (March through April)
• Package #3: Ag Exploration (April through June)
• Package #4: Harvest Days & Ag Literacy
• Package #5: Sustainable Energy
• Package #6: Ecology & The Flow of Energy

All farm-based programs are $6 per student. Chaperones are free but are limited to 10 per field trip.

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Program Agreement Procedures

To request a visit, please follow these steps:

1. Read the Program Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) carefully.
2. Return the signed agreement and MOU to the CCE administrative office.
3. Provide a Certificate of Insurance stating the required coverage (see MOU), naming Cornell Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence County, 2043B State Highway 68, Canton, NY 13617, as additionally insured.
4. Submit any required paperwork or purchase orders with your school's financial office. Extension prefers invoicing after the event to ensure accurate and timely payment, though other payment methods can be coordinated with the registrar.
5. Notify the CCE administrative office of cancellations at least seven days prior to the scheduled visit.

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Contact Information

We look forward to helping your students connect with the natural world through these engaging and educational field trips!

For more details and to schedule your educational experience, please contact:

Last updated January 8, 2025