As we are an institution that is in the Northwoods of Michigan, it would only make sense to embrace some of the culture that we surround ourselves with. One club that does exactly that is the Maple Syrup Club here on campus. As far as club meetings, the President, Owen Gorter, states, “We are trying to meet once a week. However, in our off-season, we barely meet at all and only have periodic info sessions.” At club meetings, Gorter says, “We either tap trees during a tree tapping event, relax around a bonfire while boiling sap, or have a great time in the kitchenette when the sap is about to become syrup.”
The Forestry Department here at MTU is a large supporter of the club, though students of all majors are welcome to attend the events. As mentioned, this lighthearted but entertaining club loves to embrace the traditions of the place we call home. According to the club, no experience is needed to join, and they are very willing to teach. Some events that are in the works are a pancake night (to sample the various syrups) and a sugar shack near Nara Forest. Other events that have happened include “Info sessions, tree tapping, boiling events, baking events, and syrup distribution events and tasting.”
For more information, look at the MTU student involvement website to learn more about this unique club.
