Team members from Meskwaki Food Sovereignty and Natural Resources visited the Settlement school grounds to teach the students the age-old practice of tapping maple trees—a skill that’s been passed down for generations. The Meskwaki Food Sovereignty and Natural Resources teams are a vital part of the community, working to preserve and revitalize the traditional knowledge and practices related to food and natural resources. Through educational programs, they aim to empower future generations with the skills and knowledge needed to maintain a sustainable relationship with the land.
On February 25 and 26, students gathered outside, ready to get their hands dirty and learn the process of tapping maple trees. It’s a simple yet fascinating practice that involves drilling a small hole into a mature maple tree and inserting a spout where sap will slowly drip out, ready to be collected and eventually turned into syrup. The students watched as team members demonstrated how to carefully create a spout and tap the trees, ensuring that the trees remain healthy and continue to produce sap for years to come. The hands-on experience sparked curiosity, and the students quickly picked up on the process, asking questions and getting involved themselves.
The lesson on tapping maple trees was more than just a fun field trip, it was a powerful way for students to engage with their culture and the land around them. Thanks to the Meskwaki Food Sovereignty and the Natural Resources teams, the students are now better equipped to carry forward these traditional practices, honoring the past while shaping the future.