Join the Kane County Forest Preserve District for maple tapping from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Friday and Saturday, March 14 and 15.

Forest Preserve District naturalists will demonstrate how to tap a maple tree, and you’ll have the opportunity to try your hand at drilling and setting a tap! You’ll simmer sap over an open fire and watch as it thickens to syrup. Don’t miss out on a “Sugarin’ Time” hike, during which you’ll learn how to distinguish maples from other species of hardwood trees.

No registration is required for these free Forest Preserve District programs.

At this time-honored tradition of maple tapping, you’llexplore the art, science and folklore of the “sugar bush,” or maple grove, from early Native American times to modern sugaring industry. The sap’s rising!

Afterward, be sure to check out the new tree exhibit at Creek Bend Nature Center, located within LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve. There are many things to see and do at the nature center. LeRoy Oakes and Creek Bend Nature Center are located at 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles.

For more information on Maple Sugaring, call 630-444-3190 or visit www.kaneforest.com.

SOURCE: Kane County Forest Preserve District press release