Sweet, Sweet Spring

Some think that the first sign of spring is robins. For me, it’s the blue bags from Hough’s Maple Farm tapped into maple trees around Mt. Morris. Those blue bags gather sap that the Houghs turn into pure, sweet maple syrup.

Sugaring is a Hough family tradition that began eight decades ago. The current generation, Rob and Lynnette Hough, have made it into a business that’s shared with loyal customers throughout the region.

Driving down the lane to Hough’s Maple Farm, 3788 N. Mt. Morris Rd., is like taking a step back in time. The sugar house sits at the end of the lane, tucked into their picturesque – and working – farm. The sugar house, where they make syrup and sell products, is open seven days a week offering maple items from syrup to candy to granola to – well, they’re always trying something new. You can also find items like honey and popcorn from other local artisans. The Houghs sell maple products at farmer’s markets and events during the year. Check their website and social media for a list of “road shows.”

Hough’s Maple Farm isn’t the only farm-to-table business in Mt. Morris. You can buy high-quality farm-raised meat online from Nelson Family Farms and Dietrich Ranch. Their animals grow naturally, roam pastures and pens, and are fed with grains and hay from their farms. Learn more about their humane and sustainable farming practices on their websites.

Discover the pleasures of Berryview Orchard in the gently rolling hills and farmland about seven miles outside Mt. Morris. In the fall you can pick your own or buy freshly picked apples and aronia berries. Few visitors can pass up a fresh apple fritter or the food and home items from local artisans like Nelson Family Farms and Jen’s Artisan Breads.

Area farmer’s markets in the summer and fall will showcase our best and allow you to shop in person and meet the local producers. Not only are products fresh, but there is a level of trust and accountability that you don’t get from commercially packaged food from grocery stores.

Life is maple-sweet in Mt. Morris. Make my town, your town. Learn more here.