Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz and Erie County Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry Commissioner Daniel J. Rizzo today reminded residents, schools, civic organizations and other community groups that anyone interested in taking a free tour of the county’s sugar shack can do so over the next four weekends.

“The opportunity to get a firsthand look at how sap is turned into maple syrup is just another unique experience that is provided to the public by our Parks Department,” said Poloncarz. “I have toured the facility myself and was very impressed with the operation and the syrup-making process, so I encourage residents to check it out for themselves.”

Activities led by Erie County’s park rangers include a tour (weather permitting) of the sugar shack property, located on the north side of Genesee Road approximately five miles east of Route 219 and roughly four miles west of Route 16 in East Concord. On select dates, attendees will take a hike through the sugar bush to see how sugar maples are tapped, learn about how the sap is collected and then observe the maple syrup production demonstration. Maple syrup will also be available for sale at the tours. Attendees are asked to bring along a full water bottle, weather appropriate clothing and sturdy closed-toed footwear.

“We are producing large amounts of maple syrup and welcome anyone wanting to learn more about the production process,” said Rizzo. “Tours are free and open to the public so I encourage individuals and groups to give us a call and come out to visit our facility.”

Tour availability dates and times are as follows:

• Saturday, March 4 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

• Sunday, March 5 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

• Saturday, March 11 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

• Sunday, March 12 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

• Saturday, March 18 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Sugar bush hike 12 PM – 1PM)

• Sunday, March 19 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Sugar bush hike 11AM – 12PM)

• Saturday, March 25 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Sugar bush hike 11 AM – 12PM)

• Sunday, March 26 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Sugar bush hike 1 PM – 2PM)

For more information about the sugar shack tours call (716) 858-7037 or email inquiries to michelle.depasquale@erie.gov .