CANTON -- Cornell Cooperative Extension is now accepting bookings for March tours of the Extension Learning Farm’s maple sugar bush while it is in the height of operation.

Two “maple retreats” for youth are also planned.

The tours are appropriate for school and youth groups, and can be modified to meet the needs of different ages. Programs last two to three hours and explore the history, science and economics behind the industry. Visits include a walk through the farm’s sheep and beef pastures on the way to its expansive sugar bush.

Students then watch the evaporation process in the farm’s sugar shack and receive a sampling of the final product over ice cream. Tours can be booked by calling 379-9192; a $2 per student fee is required.

The 4-H Maple Retreats will take place Feb. 4 and 5 and March 5. Non 4-H’ers are welcome.

The February retreat starts 6 p.m. Friday with ice breakers such as Maple Jeopardy, snacks and a campfire. The retreat continues from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday with a hardy pancake feed, followed by sessions about the maple industry, sugarbush health and safety, forest ecology, and the economics behind the trade. After lunch, participants will have an opportunity to spend the afternoon helping tap trees.

The March 5 retreat will focus on the evaporation process, finishing, bottling and making maple confections such as maple cream, candy and cotton candy.

The retreats are open to all youth ages 8-18, but children under 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Cost is $25 and includes teaching materials, meals, snacks, a souvenir t-shirt, and limited transportation. A $5 fee will be charged for all parents and chaperones to cover the cost of food.

To register or for info, call 379-9192.