Sault Ste. Marie First Maple Tapping

The Historic Sault Ste. Marie Métis Council, and the Huron-Superior Regional Métis Community were honoured to be represented at the symbolic First Maple Tapping Event held at the Art Gallery of Algoma, marking the official start of the maple season and celebrating the announcement that Sault Ste. Marie will host the 2026 North American Maple Syrup Council Conference.

Council Chair Samantha Case attended the gathering alongside Huron–Superior Regional Métis Community Senior Policy Analyst Ethan Roy, joining maple producers, agri-food partners, and community leaders for this important milestone. The ceremony featured a symbolic first tap, brief remarks, and opportunities to connect with those who help sustain and grow the maple sector in Northern Ontario.

Council Chair Samantha Case taps a Maple Tree with Bon Soo

Métis people have deep and longstanding connections to maple sugar harvesting in the Sault Ste. Marie region. For generations, Métis families harvested sap, produced maple sugar, and contributed to the local economy while maintaining strong relationships with the land. Events like this provide an opportunity to recognize that legacy while celebrating the continued growth of the maple industry today.

The Huron–Superior Region looks forward to working with conference organizers and community partners to share our rich Métis history and enduring connection to maple sugar — both historically and in the present day — as Sault Ste. Marie prepares to welcome guests from across North America this fall.