A few words

About OMSPA

Sweet Ontario is sponsored by the Ontario Maple Syrup Producers Association

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BACKGROUND

In 2011 Ontario maple syrup producers made about 4 million litres of maple syrup, valued at over $53 million. This is an important part of our rural and provincial economy.

Maple syrup and maple sugar have a long history in Ontario. Over time those traditions have shifted from being a source of income for small farms to a market focussed on maple syrup and specialty products such as maple butter, soft candies and taffy. We’re now deeply involved with issues such as the nutritional value of maple products in food, and the rise in culinary tourism to maple producers.

OMSPA

The Ontario Maple Syrup Producers Association (OMSPA) began in 1966 to represent maple syrup producers across the province. We are committed to production of high-quality maple products using the best available management practices. We are proud to carry on the traditions associated with one of nature’s greatest natural sweeteners – the making of maple syrup when the sap begins to flow.

OMSPA is the official voice of sugar makers in the province. We currently represent over 400 from across the province, who are committed to producing a high-quality product for consumers to enjoy. Our members are involved with many activities at the provincial level or through one of our 11 local chapters across the maple-producing areas of the province. We also work closely with other organizations and levels of government to promote and protect the maple industry in Ontario. OMSPA is an active member of the International Maple Syrup Institute.

We have an active Board of Directors and 7 program committees:

Finance
Marketing and Promotion
Membership
Quality Assurance
Web site
Research and Tech Transfer
Governance

WHAT WE DO

OMSPA is committed to providing both our members and consumers with a forum for all things related to maple. As producers, we provide consumers with information on the benefits of using maple products and where to obtain locally produced maple syrup. We also are committed to providing producers with a forum for networking, learning, and contributing to the improvement of the maple syrup industry in Ontario. And we provide producers a source for the latest news, developments, and information on the industry. OMSPA is visible at numerous local and regional events across the province to promote maple products and to showcase our craft.

WE PROMOTE

The application of the highest standards for the production of pure maple products,
The development and distribution of information materials to help consumers make better informed choices on the purchase and use of maple products,
A prosperous and viable maple products industry,
The application of new and more effective ways to produce quality maple syrup, and
Maintenance of a sustainable and healthy maple forest resource base.

In summary OMSPA is all about promoting and encouraging the wise use and development of the maple syrup industry in Ontario – and ensuring that the unique traditions associated with this craft continue for many centuries to come.