GLENVILLE, WV – Glenville State University’s Department of Land Resources is highlighting a recent hands-on learning experience in its Natural Resource program, which brought classroom learning to life from tree to table.
On a cold February morning, Students enrolled in Dr. Nabil Nasseri’s Forest Recreation and Wildlife Management course (FRST 202), tapped 10 maple trees located on the Arbuckle property adjoining the GSU College Forest. Over the following weeks, students volunteered every other day to collect sap, which was stored until enough had accumulated for production. After gathering approximately 60–65 gallons of sap, the class began the process of making syrup.
Sap collection conditions varied throughout the project due to fluctuating temperatures and rain, which impacted overall yield. While it typically takes 50–60 gallons of sap to produce one gallon of syrup, the class ultimately produced approximately three-quarters of a gallon of pure dark amber Glenville maple syrup.
To complete the process, the Department of Land Resources utilized a small evaporator designed for producing maple syrup. Students spent roughly 10 hours boiling the sap down, gaining firsthand experience in the transformation from raw resource to finished product.
The syrup-making process also served as a memorable class experience. While monitoring the evaporation process, students spent time together playing games, visiting, and enjoying the aroma of boiling sap. The project concluded with a pancake breakfast, where students sampled the syrup they produced and each took home a jar.
This project provided students with practical knowledge of tree physiology, seasonal sap flow, and the production of maple syrup from a forest resource. It also emphasized the importance of hands-on learning, teamwork, and the value of natural resource management.
For more information on this course experience and other news from Glenville State University, please contact the Glenville State University Public Relations by calling (304) 462-6391.
