By Blake Jackson
The Maple Hour webinar series will host an upcoming session titled “Companion Crops for the Sugarbush” on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m.
This free virtual event will feature Eric Burkhart, a professor at Pennsylvania State University and an expert in botany, ethnobotany, and agroforestry.
During the session, Burkhart will explore opportunities for integrating non-timber forest products into active sugarbush operations.
Attendees will learn about valuable understory crops such as ramps and ginseng, along with other forest-grown products that can enhance productivity and diversify income streams for maple producers.
The discussion will highlight how these companion crops can be cultivated and harvested without disrupting maple syrup production.
The Maple Hour series is designed for maple enthusiasts across Wisconsin and beyond, offering timely topics, knowledgeable guest speakers, and interactive Q&A sessions. This webinar provides a convenient platform for participants to expand their knowledge of forest farming and sustainable land use practices.
The event will be conducted online via Zoom and is open to anyone interested in crops and soils, farm management, forestry, or horticulture.
Registration is required to attend, and participants can access additional details and sign-up information through the Maple Hour webpage.
For more information, interested individuals may contact Tony Johnson at anthony.johnson@wisc.edu or 608-386-8900.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-paul-hartley
Categories: Wisconsin, Education, General