U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, District 21 | Official U.S. House headshot
U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, District 21 | Official U.S. House headshot
Congresswoman Elise Stefanik recently penned an opinion piece in Sun Community News, highlighting the importance of supporting the hardworking maple producers in Upstate New York and the North Country during the maple sugaring season. Stefanik emphasized the significance of the maple industry in the region, stating, "Our incredible Upstate New York and North Country maple producers are hard at work this time of year for maple sugaring season."
Stefanik pointed out that New York is the second-highest producing state of maple syrup in the nation, with the North Country being home to two of the top three highest producing counties for maple syrup in the state. She commended the dedication of the region's maple producers, many of whom are family-owned and operated, for their contributions to the local economy.
As a staunch advocate for farmers, including maple producers, Stefanik highlighted her efforts in Congress to support the industry. She mentioned hosting listening sessions to gather insights from farmers and producers about their priorities and concerns. Stefanik expressed her commitment to reauthorizing funding for the Acer Access and Development Program in the upcoming Farm Bill to support the maple industry in NY-21.
Stefanik also shared her support for the bipartisan Supporting All Producers (SAP) Act, which aims to involve maple producers in determining research and education priorities through the Acer Access and Development Program. She underscored the importance of consulting with industry experts to effectively utilize resources for the benefit of maple producers.
In conclusion, Stefanik urged the public to support local maple producers by shopping for maple products and participating in maple weekends at farms across the state. She emphasized the significance of backing the industry and engaging with the community during the maple sugaring season.
The full opinion piece by Congresswoman Elise Stefanik can be accessed at https://stefanik.house.gov/2024/3/icymi-stefanik-op-ed-in-sun-community-news-supporting-our-maple-producers-this-season.