Maple syrup: How sweet it is

In March, the Chippewa Nature Center in Midland celebrates maple syrup season with a variety of free programs for families.

Go on a guided walk through the Sugarbush at the center to see how sap is collected – and maybe help empty some buckets. Then explore the Sugarhouse, where you can watch sap being boiled into syrup with a wood-fired evaporator. A traditional skills instructor will show how to make folded birch bark containers, a historical springtime activity for Native Americans in the area.

Stop by March 13-14, 20-21 and 27-28 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. On March 23 and 25, you can catch a special sunset program at the Sugarhouse from 6 to 8 p.m. On March 27, kids can make their own sap spile from sumac branches just as the settlers did and taste maple taffy made on the woodstove.

For more information, visit the Web site at www.chippewanaturecenter.org.