Spring is coming, the sap is running at the annual Maple Syrup Festival is up and going again at Terra Cotta Conservation Area. Things started over the weekend, but local representatives, including some from Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) were on hand Tuesday morning for the launch of the festivities. They included Councillor Ron Starr from Mississauga, Erin Councillor John Brennan, Caledon Councillor Johanna Downey, Halton Hills Councillor Bob Inglis, CVC Chair and Mississauga Councillor Nando Iannicca, CVC Chief Administrative Officer Deborah Martin-Downs and Caledon Mayor Allan Thompson.

Saturday was a great day to start the annual Maple Syrup Festival. Mike Molrooney was demonstrating some wood branding for Aidan Jordan, 4, of Georgetown.
Photos by Bill Rea

Shawn Verge, operations manager at Terra Cotta Conservation Area, was explaining the workings of the sugar shack to dignitaries Tuesday.

Blacksmith Dave Kritz of Walkerton was showing some of the tricks of his trade.

Julia Caissie was demonstrating how taffy is made.

Melissa DeCiantis of The Urban Lumberjack of Mississauga was doing some carving with a chain saw.

There were lots of pancakes for the hungry people attending the festivities. Frank Dicecco of On the Move Catering was among those working at the grill.

Environmental Educator Devon Doane was at the Sweet Water station, demonstrating how sap was processed 600 years ago.