ROCKPORT — Cabin fever setting in? Looking for a sweet pick-me-up? This March, Maine Coast Heritage Trust invites all ages to learn about making maple syrup from scratch (sap) at Aldermere Farm, 70 Russell Ave in Rockport. 

Individuals may register for one or more hands-on sessions to learn about the syrup-making process: identifying sugar maples, tapping trees, collecting sap, and running the evaporator.

Sessions will run from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 9 and 16; and from 2 - 2:45 p.m. and 3 - 3:45 p.m. on Friday, March 24.

Those who are looking for a more in-depth, hands-on experience, and who don’t mind a little heavy lifting, may sign up to assist as needed (hauling buckets of sap, tending the evaporator, boiling, and finishing the syrup). The finished product will be donated to area food pantries.   

Participants must dress to be outside for an extended period in the cold. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. There are no public restrooms at the farm.    

Space is limited. Registration is open until March 6 and is available by phone (207-236-2739) and online (aldermere.org/sap-to- syrup/). 

Aldermere Farm is a preserve of Maine Coast Heritage Trust, a statewide land conservation organization. Sap-to-Syrup and other community programs at Aldermere Farm are free to participants thanks to generous support from donors.