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Where to find fiddlehead ferns Hey everyone, Corey Kinsella here from CIPS (Cambium Indigenous Professional Services, Technical Advisor). Today, I am going to show you where to find fiddlehead ferns and how to identify them. These spring blooming ferns are super tasty (they make a great side dish) and high in nutritional value. Below is a transcription of Corey's video "where to find fiddlehead ferns" -------------------------- Hello (aanii) everyone, Corey Kinsella from CIPS (Cambium Indigenous Professional Services). We're doing some environmental assessment work here in central Ontario. It's a bright, sunny day here on May the 5th and have come across a patch of ostrich ferns (fiddlehead ferns). I though I would do a little "how to" on how to identify (fiddlehead ferns) them when you are out in your traditional territory this spring. Where you are out and about and looking for fiddleheads, you want to be near a water source or a wetland (as we are here). There's (a wetland) one to our north about 10 to 20 metres. You can see here, these ostrich ferns (fiddlehead ferns) are starting to sprout pretty fast. We've got a good patch of them here and when you're looking for ostrich ferns (fiddlehead ferns), how you identify them is the nice bright green. You can see that they have this ridge in the middle of them (stalk) and kind of like a celery but they're not furry, nice and smooth. (Want to know how I make my maple syrup? Check my page out called " how maple syrup is made ") When you want to pick them is when they are nice and tight, furled up (like this). You will pull them off and you will have yourself some good eating. You can see over here that we have more (fiddleheads) coming up. The nice, tight ones near the ground are perfect for harvesting. As you can see, when you find some (obviously) you will find a lot more (fiddlehead ferns). Happy harvesting! -End of transcription- How to identify fiddlehead ferns. Fiddleheads are green in colour with the tops curled up. There is usually a bunch of small ferns in the middle of the curled up stalk (called fronds). Fiddle head ferns usually have a smooth stalk, similar to celery but not rough or furry. Fiddlehead ferns are usually bunched closely together in groups. See image below. What a fiddlehead fern looks like Fiddlehead ferns grouped in a bunch Fiddlehead fern stalks are green usually very smooth Where to find fiddlehead ferns? Fiddlehead ferns are usually located near a water source such as a river, pond, lake or a wetland such as a marsh. In the image below, I am pointing to a wet land about 30 feet away. Fiddlehead ferns will usually grow in bunches close by. Fiddlehead ferns are notorious for growing on forest floors so your first job to find fiddlehead ferns is to find a heavily wooded area. Secondly, look for a water source. Thirdly, search 10 to 25 feet away from the banks of the water source, you should be able to find fiddlehead ferns. Fiddlehead ferns location Fiddlehead ferns will grow in stands. If you find one, chances are you are going to find more in the same area (stands). See the image below (see if you can pick out the fiddle head ferns!). Most wooded areas in Ontario (and Canada) will have fiddleheads growing near a water source. Fiddlehead ferns usually grow near a water source Usually, you will find fiddlehead ferns growing near a water source. In the above photos, fiddlehead ferns are growing on the bank of this small stream. I live in North Bay so there are plenty of wooded areas with small streams around. Chances are, if you live near a water source (such as a small stream) you will find fiddlehead ferns. Look for a water source to find Fiddlehead Ferns! A fiddlehead fern stand Fiddlehead ferns are usually located in a wooded area near a water source When to harvest fiddlehead ferns . Fiddle head ferns can be harvested in the spring. It is best to harvest fiddlehead ferns when the stalks are between 3 and 6 inches in length AND the tops (fronds) are still curled up. Break near the middle of the stalk so that the fern can keep growing after you harvest the fronds (top curled up part). Fiddle head ferns are very tasty and have been used by Indigenous People as medicine and food for centuries. Often compared to (in taste) to asparagus and spring salads, fiddleheads are high in nutritional value. Fiddlehead ferns are high in fibrous carbohydrates (great for digestion), protein and important vitamins, minerals and trace elements such as zinc, magnesium, potassium, iron and copper. When Do Fiddleheads Come Out? You can expect fiddleheads to come out mid to late April to early to mid May. This all depends on how warm it is and how early spring arrives. Here in North Bay, Ontario we had an early spring so Fiddleheads have come out earlier than usual. They started to come out mid / late April. You have to remember, the harvesting season for Fiddleheads is only about 2 to 3 weeks long and depending on how warm it is, it can be shorter (or longer). Remember, the next time you are around a wet land (and in the forest), keep an eye out for fiddlehead ferns. Related Articles: What does sweetgrass look like? Blueberry foraging techniques How to make cedar tea How to make pure maple syrup Different types of seed dispersal

Organization: Invasive Species Centre (ISC) Location: Across Ontario, with willingness to travel to Sault Ste. Marie Type: Hybrid, full time permanent The Opportunity The Board of Directors of the Invasive Species Centre (ISC) seeks a dynamic, visionary and accomplished Executive Director to lead the organization, at an exciting and transformative time in the organization’s history. The Executive Director will leverage new investments to drive growth, aligning and advancing a new strategic plan across the organization’s operations. The ideal candidate is collaborative, action oriented, and most importantly, strategic in approach. They care deeply about the organization’s mission to protect lands and waters from invasive species that threaten our environment, economy and society in Canada. Through a significant track record, they have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities, strong communication skills, entrepreneurial drive, and exceptional financial, human resource, administrative, planning and organizational skills. The Role Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director has full accountability for the mission and operations of the Invasive Species Centre. The Executive Director is responsible for the organization’s consistent achievement of its mission and priorities through strategic planning, developing government, funder, Indigenous and partner relationships, implementing programming, meeting financial and administrative goals, and continuing to develop a dynamic team. To find out more about this exciting career opportunity, please see this page here: https://www.invasivespeciescentre.ca/about-us/careers/

New Report Outlines Strategy for Increasing Access to Urban and Near-Urban Greenspaces Through Private Land Stewardship and Indigenous Collaboration Toronto, June 4, 2024 - As Ontario grows, there is an increasing demand for greenspaces within and near urban areas. Large parks provide benefits for physical and mental health, allow access to recreational and cultural spaces close to home and can provide critical habitats and corridors for biodiversity. In response, a recent report titled Integrating Private Lands in Large Park Networks, by the Greenbelt Foundation in partnership with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and Cambium Indigenous Professional Services, examines the potential for incorporating private lands into large park and trail systems with the benefits of it being in near urban areas to increase greenspace access for all. The greatest need for recreation and biodiversity conservation are within the nation’s most urban regions, which also have high levels of private land ownership. As Canada advances reconciliation through conservation actions, private lands donated, secured, or placed under conservation easements are an opportunity to engage Indigenous Communities and recognize Rights and Responsibilities on their Territorial treaties while preserving biodiversity and connecting ecological trail systems with other protected areas to enhance the support of human health and wellbeing. The report highlights key recommendations to update existing government conservation and land securement programs for private lands such as the Ecological Gifts Program and Natural Heritage Conservation Program, to reflect these goals. Additional recommendations urge governments, First Nations and community partners, such as land trusts and conservation authorities, to unite strategies and programs to conserve biodiversity, increase access to greenspace and create opportunities for Indigenous Peoples to connect with and uphold their rights and responsibilities to their traditional and treaty lands by targeting private lands for inclusion in large parks networks. “In Canada‘s largest urban area addressing the growing need for large park planning across the region is increasingly important if we are to meet the needs of our growing population – but we need innovative and contemporary solutions in these near-urban areas,” said Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation, “Southern Ontario is also a biodiversity hotspot and home to many First Nations and Indigenous Peoples. Updating private land stewardship programs is critical to new park creation – along with ensuring protection of ecosystems and alignment with Indigenous Rights and Responsibilities.” “While historical injustices towards Indigenous Peoples remain a standing issue, collaborations with Indigenous Peoples, Communities and Organizations is imperative in moving any environmental issue forward,” said Kerry-Ann Charles, Environment Partnership Coordinator at Cambium Indigenous Professional Services (CIPS). “A collaborative approach to increasing access to and expanding greenspace would fulfill a plethora of mutually beneficial needs, from the restoration of native ecosystems and species habitats to the supported assertion of Indigenous Rights and Responsibilities in the stewardship and management of the environment, including the spiritual connection to the natural world and the lessons they teach us. This collaboration and the recommendations put forth is a great example of a step forward in creating opportunities for Western and Indigenous knowledge systems and practices to be bridged and implemented within Ethical Space achieving the ultimate goal of creating a system truly rooted in Two Eyed Seeing and in the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation.” Building upon the challenges identified in the Foundation’s 2019 and 2022 reports; State of Large Parks in Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe and Improving Access to Large Parks in Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe, which identified a trending loss in park lands, this latest report also utilizes five case studies to showcase successful initiatives related to private lands that address landowner concerns related to public safety and liability, the integration of formal land conservation programs with traditional cultural ties and practices to the land, and balancing public use and ecosystem health. In addition to new legislation and the importance of coordinated efforts to safeguard ecological connections, case studies showcase how public safety and liability concerns can be addressed to support public access to private land and the integration of formal land conservation programs with cultural ties to the land. “Protecting greenspace in cities and nearby areas is crucial for connecting ecosystems and providing people with access to nature. In areas where public greenspace is limited, protected and accessible private lands can bridge the gap to parks and conservation areas. This not only benefits communities' physical and mental health but also aids in conserving and enhancing biodiversity.” said Sameer Dhalla, Director, Development & Engineering Services at TRCA. “Furthermore, private land conservation presents a unique opportunity for meaningful engagement with Indigenous Communities, facilitating the recognition and implementation of Indigenous Rights and Responsibilities.” For more detailed information on the study's methodology and specific results from each case study, please refer to the full report and the backgrounder: https://www.greenbelt.ca/private_lands_report. Funding for this project has been generously provided by Parks Canada and the Government of Ontario. About the Greenbelt and the Greenbelt Foundation The Greenbelt Foundation is the only organization solely dedicated to ensuring the Greenbelt remains permanent, protected, and prosperous. The Foundation operates as an independent, charitable organization, and receives core funding from the Government of Ontario as well as other public and private support to make strategic investments that enhance and improve the systems and productivity of the Greenbelt. Since 2005, the Foundation has invested in the interconnected natural, agricultural, and economic systems, to ensure a working, thriving Greenbelt for all. Now a world-class model, Ontario’s Greenbelt spans over two million acres of protected natural landscapes, farmlands, and urban river valleys. For more information, visit: www.greenbelt.ca. About Cambium Indigenous Professional Services (CIPS) CIPS is headquartered at the Curve Lake First Nation in Ontario. A First Nation owned and operated engineering and consulting company, CIPS is dedicated to making a positive difference in the communities it serves. It offers a range of services from Environmental to Indigenous Awareness Training to Meeting Facilitation, Planning and Hosting. About Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) Since 1957, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), as enabled through the provincial Conservation Authorities Act, has taken action to enhance our region’s natural environment and protect our land, water, and communities from the impacts of flooding and increasingly extreme weather events – Ontario’s leading cause of public emergencies. As the region’s first line of defence against natural hazards, TRCA maintains vital infrastructure and provides programs and services that promote public health and safety, protecting people and property. TRCA mobilizes a science-based approach to provide sound policy advice, leveraging its position as a not-for-profit operating in the broader public sector to achieve collective impacts within our communities and across all levels of government. TRCA’s jurisdiction includes nine watersheds and their Lake Ontario shorelines, spanning six upper-tier and fifteen lower-tier municipalities and representing almost five million people, approximately 10% of Canada’s population. To learn more about TRCA, visit trca.ca. For media inquiries: Serena Luk Content and Media Relations Manager Media@greenbelt.ca The Greenbelt Foundation 416-960-0001

At CIPS, we know and understand the Indigenous Engagement process. With over 50 years of combined experience in the Indigenous Engagement and Awareness field, our Indigenous led teams implement and use proven engagement strategies to yield the best results. Today, I am going to outline 5 steps that CIPS incorporates into it's Indigenous Engagement models to elicit high engagement responses. This model represents one of various Indigenous Engagement methods that CIPS uses to improve engagement response rates and ultimately, bottom line results. Step 1: Inform The Goal: To provide community members with balanced and objective information that will assist them in making an informed decision. The Style: "Here's what's happening" The following techniques can be used to INFORM. Websites Videos Infographics Social media Advertising - paid ads on radio, newspaper, TV, or online Media Coverage - earned media - free media traction via press releases, news conference, etc., Printed Collateral - newsletters, letters, posters, fact sheets, brochures, reports, etc., Presentations / Livestreaming Expert panels Displays / Exhibits - set up at community events Public meetings Step 2: Consult The Goal: To obtain community member's feedback on analysis, alternatives, and/or decisions. The Style: "Here are some options, what do you think?" The following techniques can be used to CONSULT. Polls Voting Surveys Interviews Workshops Focus Groups Online Forums Social Media Listening Virtual Discussion / Town Halls Door-To-Door Step 3: Involve The Goal: To work directly with community members throughout the process to ensure that their concerns and ideas are consistently understood. The Style: "Here's the challenge, what ideas to you have?" The following techniques can be used to INVOLVE. Community Mapping or Mind Mapping Digital Storytelling - multimedia movies that combine photographs, videos, sounds, music, text, and a narrative voice Visioning Citizens' Panel - a group of people who are representative of the community that are surveyed from time to time Step 4: Collaborate The Goal: To work closely with community members in each aspect of the project. The Style: "Let's work together" The following techniques can be used to COLLABORATE. Large Group Meetings Document Co-Creation - allow community members to collaborate in real time on a project Open Space Meetings Working Groups / Study Circles Step 5: Empower The Goal: Shared leadership of the community-led project with final decision-making at the community level. The Style: "What are the next steps we can take?" The following techniques can be used to EMPOWER. Decision-making platform Citizen Committees - community members can share ideas and have a voice in the decision-making process Community Indicator Projects - community members discuss what's important, what's working, and what's not working Asset-based Community Development 5 Steps to Meaningful Community Engagement: Inform Consult Involve Collaborate Empower Does your organization or business need help with Indigenous Engagement and Awareness? CIPS has over 50 years combined experience in the Indigenous Awareness and Engagement field with proven techniques and methods. To find out more, please call us at: (705) 657-1126 or email at spirit@indigenousaware.com To chat directly with our CEO, Mike Jacobs via Zoom, please book an appointment for a consultation at: https://go.oncehub.com/MikeJacobs Related Articles: What NOT To Do When It Comes To Indigenous Community Engagement 5 principles for effective Indigenous Engagement Doing business with First Nations: A beginners guide Indigenous awareness training: A foundation for success

A lesson on how not to approach Indigenous community engagement. Please note that this is my own personal experience based on my job as a Band Administrator for my First Nation. This is not a representation of all First Nation Communities across Canada. This may or may not be applicable to your situation but can be used to help guide you in the right direction when it comes to Indigenous Community Engagement. Back when I was a Band Administrator for my First Nation, we were approached by a company to invest in a huge natural resource project. This was a multi million dollar project that was going to convert wood chips into usable chip boards using new technology from Sweden. Using the investments from surrounding communities (including Indigenous Communities) the plan was to build a manufacturing plant in a nearby town. The partners and representatives for the project were Non-Indigenous. Their plan was to approach each surrounding First Nation for a million dollar investment for a small stake in the company. In order for this project to proceed, the company needed the support from the Indigenous Communities in the area. After an initial meeting with Chief and Council, they were allowed to attend one of our Community meetings and to present their idea to the community who will vote on whether or not to get involved with the project. As the Band Administrator, I was excited to hear more about the project due to it's potential. However, the community engagement meeting didn't go as planned. Here are 8 reasons why this community engagement failed and how you can learn from these mistakes to improve your next engagement project (s). 1. Dress Accordingly When the company executives showed up, they were dressed in suits which immediately put Chief, Council and the Community Members in defensive mode. My First Nation has had its share of bad experiences with government and business people dressed in suits and seeing this immediately put us in defensive mode. Of course, the company executives assumed that this dress code was the default for community meetings which was not the case (for my First Nation Community). I can't speak for all Indigenous Communities in Canada but for my First Nation, seeing Non-Indigenous people dressed in fancy business attire is somewhat suspect (based on my First Nations history in past situations). Anywhere else (off territory), this would have been acceptable meeting attire. However, for my First Nation Community this put the community members (especially our Elders) who were in attendance on edge. Kind of a bad first impression. 2. Always Acknowledge The Community, Territory (Treaty Area) and Elders After having their workers set up the projector and audio, the business executives presented their idea. There was no land or territory (treaty) acknowledgement nor was there any Elders greeting. On First Nations Territory it is customary to acknowledge the territory, community, elders, Chief and Council and members prior to any meeting. Our Elders hold the highest regard in our communities so a respectful greeting is always customary at meetings. With no territory or land acknowledgement the company executives jumped into their presentation. I think we (the community) looked past this because they didn't know any better but still, it kind of set a sour note to the start of the meeting. Related: Understanding Indigenous Treaties in Ontario 3. Stay Away From Technical Jargon Once the company executives got into their presentation, they started using technical jargon to try and "wow" us with their command of the English language. It had the opposite effect. Not only were we not impressed with their technical word smithing but we had no clue what they were talking about. They (company reps) didn't take the time to understand that me, Chief and Council and the community members were NOT experts in this field. In addition, some of our Elders on Council (and in the audience), were not well versed in the English language (as Ojibway is their first language). There were times during the presentation that I had to interject to ask the presenters to explain to my Chief, Council and Community Members what some of their technical jargon meant. I was trying to help them out but I think they got a little impatient trying to explain all of their technical jargon. Not good. There was very little appeal to their presentation since we had no clue what they were talking about. There was a huge communication gap. It comes down to knowing your audience. Do NOT talk over your audience. If there are any technical terms that you must present, make sure you explain it so that everyone understands it. Related: 3 Effective Ways To Communicate Technical Information To First Nations Communities 4. Know Some of The History and Background of the First Nations Community The company executives went on and on about how the project would create jobs (for my First Nations community) and how much more money would be injected into the local economy. They were listing benefit after benefit about this and that but my community has heard this all before and for most of us, especially our Elders this type of language means very little. You see, my First Nation has had multi national corporations set up plants here before and to this day, the community is still trying to clean up the mess (that was left behind years ago). The lands and waterways have been polluted to the point of no return. The earth and soil have been so scorched and polluted that they may never be the same. The smell may never go away (completely). The land on which my First Nations resides has been injured badly (from multi national corporations) and the scars from those companies remain today. The clean up will (and has) cost millions and the corporation responsible have left the community, leaving my First Nation with the bill. You can understand my communities reluctance to entertain any idea of investing or partnering with another multi national company. Fool me once... If the company knew a bit about my First Nations history with multi national corporations they may have approached their presentation a little differently. Related: Indigenous Awareness Training - What You Need To Know: Residential Schools and The Truth and Reconciliation 94 Calls To Action 5. Know Some of the Priorities and Values of The First Nations Community What the company executives and representatives failed to understand was the difference in our value systems. Monetary benefits seemed to be all the company executives were interested in but as an Indigenous Community, it doesn't hold the same value. Economic development and business isn't as high of a priority in my First Nation community. Important, yes but critical, no. Priorities such as Infrastructure, environment, housing, clean drinking water, social, culture, tradition, education and community well-being take precedent. As the meeting went on, it was evident that the company executives and representatives didn't understand my First Nations priorities and goals. It became very evident that they were there for the wrong reasons. They were there for them, not us. Big business was (and to this day) NOT a priority for my First Nation. Community well-being will always come first. Related: Indigenous Awareness Training: How Do First Nations Work? The Basics of Community 6. Come As a Friend or Valued Guest First At the time, the big priority was finding water so the community can have clean drinking water. Our wells all went dry and we were trying to find solutions. I'll be very honest here, we NEEDED to find water and soon. That was the priority. Perhaps if the company asked our leaders if there was something they could have assisted with, it may have sparked a mutual and respectful friendship. Even a small gesture would have went a long way to show genuine interest in the communities well-being. The final outcome (from the meeting) may have been more positive for the company. From what I understood, the company needed the approval of all the surrounding Indigenous Communities in order for this project to get the licensing from the province. Given the importance, I would have assumed the presentation would have been well researched including basic history, protocols and the values that we as Indigenous People hold in high regard. Unfortunately, this was not the case. Related: Indigenous Community Engagement Methods 7. Be Authentic While the intentions for the company seemed important (to them), it wasn't to the community. To us, their intentions did not align with community values, traditions, culture or the best interest of our Nation. It may have been a different outcome if the company took the time to understand my First Nations priorities and way of life. I can't speak for all First Nations Communities in Canada but for my First Nation, community well-being will always come first. Community well-being goes beyond money, economic development or material possessions. It's about coming together as a community. When a community member passes away, we shut down all offices for the funeral. When hunting seasons starts there are special harvest days so the community can all share the hunt. We close community offices for these occasions. For someone coming from outside the community, this can be a hard concept to grasp. It can be hard to understand that we can shut our offices down for a marriage or a hunt. These are values my Fist Nation holds in high regard. To be authentic is to show genuine interest in the well-being of our community. Even the smallest (authentic) gesture in the well-being of a First Nations Community will go a long way in establishing trust. For my First Nation, trust is everything and hard to earn. Based on my First Nations history with government and big business, trust has been severely damaged so earning trust will take work. The company approached this meeting like any other meeting (off territory) that they were used too. They were under the assumption that my First Nation was no different than the surrounding towns and municipalities and treated as such. I can't blame the company nor it's representatives because they simply didn't understand that First Nations Communities are NOT like other towns or municipalities. Related: Indigenous Engagement Guide 8. Be Respectful of Each First Nations Beliefs, Traditions, Customs and Way of Life First Nations Communities have their own traditions, leadership structure, community structure, history, culture, language and way of life that are quite different than Non-Indigenous Communities (and other First Nations Communities). Like anything, it is more important to understand the "who" and not so much on the "why". This is vital when you are thinking about Indigenous Community Engagement. Respecting who we are as proud Indigenous People is much more important than "why" you are there. If you can understand this aspect to your engagement process, you will be in a much better position. Approach your potential partnership or engagement like you would a valued and respected friend. Here is my short list of must have's when it comes to a positive Indigenous Community Engagement and Awareness (please keep in mind this is my personal view as a former band manager). Have a basic understanding of the First Nation and the history, especially in the area of what you are asking about. Be mindful of sensitive areas. Have a basic understanding of what is important to the First Nation. What is the priority? Perhaps there is something you may be able to help with which will show that you are genuinely there for the right reasons; Always come in friendship first and be authentic; Stay away from technical terms when meeting with the Chief, Council and Community Members; Never talk down to anyone; Always acknowledge the community, territory, lands and people (especially the community Elders) when starting a presentation or meeting; Take the time to understand how to approach an Indigenous Community and it's leaders; Learn the protocols for that community. If in doubt, call the band office and ask to speak to a community outreach or advisor. If this doesn't work, state your intentions and reception will direct your call to the right person or department. Dress accordingly. Every community will have a different dress protocol but usually, casual dress is acceptable. Ask the community outreach or advisor for proper dress protocol. DO NOT attempt any humour that Indigenous People may find offensive; Don't try any humour without establishing rapport first. Understand that most First Nations Communities operate on their own timeline. A First Nations Community may shut down for the day for a funeral. If it is close to hunting season, a First Nations Community may shut down for the week for harvest. Remember....these are the values and priorities that First Nations communities hold in high regard. You have to respect those values. It's not that First Nations Communities don't respect your timeline because they do. The well-being and values of the community will always come first and everything else second. Take the time to nurture a positive relationship with the First Nation or organization. All good things take time. Patience and understanding are key to starting a positive relationship with First Nations Communities. See point 11. Show that you and your company are there for the right reasons. Go to the pow wows (and community events) and be an active participant. Bring some food if it is a potluck. Donate to giveaways. This will go a long way in showing the community that you and your company (or organization) are there for the right reasons. Here are a few articles that will help you: 5 Steps to Meaningful Community Engagement Doing Business With First Nations: A Beginners Guide Indigenous Awareness Training: A Foundation for Success 5 Principles for Effective Indigenous Engagement Digital Indigenous Engagement: A Guide on How To Use Digital Tools for Engagement Understanding and respecting the customs, traditions, beliefs and way of life of Indigenous Peoples of Canada will always be the foundation for successful Indigenous Engagements. The more you know and understand about the rich and proud heritage of Indigenous People in Canada the more receptive your message will be. For the past 3 years I've been working with a team of Indigenous Engagement and Awareness Experts at Cambium Indigenous Professional Services (CIPS). This is a 100% Indigenous company that has over 30 years of Indigenous Engagement and Awareness experience. From meetings, presentations, workshops to master of ceremonies, CIPS has worked with Indigenous Communities and Organizations for the best possible outcomes. Their team of Indigenous Awareness and Engagement Experts know their stuff! If you are not sure what to do next or how to approach your engagement, give us a call. We will advise and provide you with the information you need to move forward. If you or your organization is interested in working with Indigenous Communities (or organizations) and not sure where to start or how to begin, give CIPS a call at 705-657-1126. Email at: spirit@indigenousaware.com. You can also contact CIPS here. They will be more than happy to help! Chi Miigwetch Blake Bissaillion CIPS Digital Marking Advisor

When working with Indigenous Communities, it is vital to identify the most appropriate engagement methods that will yield the best results. Every Indigenous Community is different and depending on the current social, economic and political landscape, your engagement methods will align with those factors. For example, trying to coordinate a community meeting during hunting season may be difficult because turnout will be low (everyone is hunting). This will have a huge impact on community meetings, turnout and ultimately, responses. It will be important to pre plan your Indigenous Community Engagement with all potential partners including Band Staff, Administration, Band Managers and Chief and Council. At the end of the day you will have to find out the best time to engage in addition to choosing the best engagement method for that community. However, all things being equal there are common Indigenous Community Engagement methods that can be very effective. At CIPS, we have over 50 years combined experience in the Indigenous Community Engagement Field and will share some of our most common community engagement methods in this article. Community Meetings The face to face nature at these events provides a great opportunity to demonstrate openness and transparency to community members and stakeholders. Focus Groups Focus Groups encourages discussion and work well when reaching out to smaller groups. Surveys Surveys or questionnaires often ask yes/no or scaled questions in order to identify community opinion. They are useful for mass outreach. Web-Based Management Online public participation is a useful way to reach and engage with many stakeholders. Reaching out using online communications can include using social media, web or cloud-based survey systems, and online discussion platforms. It is very important to remember to ask the right questions! Remember: Great Questions + Genuine Curiousity + High Expectations + Diverse Community = Healthier Conversations & Smarter, Enduring Solutions Here are 3 tips for successful Community Indigenous Engagement. Tip #1: Start the conversation early. Call the Band Office or Administration and start a dialogue. Find out important dates such as community holidays, feasts, pow-wows, hunting season and other important upcoming events. This way you know which dates are potentially available for community engagement sessions. Each First Nation has their own protocols. Find out what you need to be doing to get off on the right foot. Tip #2: Listen to what community members have to say. Less talk and more listening is the golden rule in First Nations communities. Allow all community members have their say without interrupting or attempting to correct. Related: What NOT to do when it comes to Indigenous Community Engagement Once all members, staff and administration have had a chance to voice their opinions, questions or concerns you may feel free to speak and help guide the conversation. Tip #3: Use appropriate communication tactics. Remember, you are there to help guide the conversation. Keep on target without getting off track. Keep your tone calm and steady. Never talk down to or try and correct Chief and Council, community members or staff. When explaining technical terminology, follow the guidelines in this article: 3 Ways to Effectively Communicate Technical Information to First Nation Communities Stay away from acronyms. Use full descriptions so that everyone understands. How we can help Does your organization or business need help with Indigenous Engagement and Awareness? CIPS has over 50 years combined experience in the Indigenous Awareness and Engagement field with proven techniques and methods. To find out more, please call us at: (705) 657-1126 or email at spirit@indigenousaware.com To chat directly with our CEO, Mike Jacobs via Zoom, please book an appointment for a consultation at: https://go.oncehub.com/MikeJacobs Relevant articles 5 Steps To Meaningful Indigenous Community Engagement 5 Principles for Effective Indigenous Engagement 3 Ways to Effectively Communicate Technical Information to First Nation Communities Achieving Effective and Meaningful Engagement with Indigenous Communities How To Work With Indigenous Peoples Please share to your network

The Invasive Species Centre is seeking proposals for grants to support groups or organizations to help control the spread of Phragmites. The Invasive Phragmites Control Fund (IPCF) will help to support local, front line action on Phragmite control activities and expand those initiatives for a provincial wide Phragmites program. The main objectives of the fund are to map and develop collaborative plans, expand and intensify Phragmites control measures and implementation, address the rapid spread of Phragmites and to increase the awareness and coordination between volunteers, landowners and improve overall capacity. Funding priority will be given to 1) Mapping, monitoring and planning 2) Control measures; And 3) Control innovations and techniques. The IPCF will support Phragmites projects that range from $2,500 to $25,000. Larger projects such as multi-partner and landscape scale collaborations will also be considered up to $50,000. The Invasive Species Centre will be coordinating the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund with the help and support from: Green Shovels Collaborative Nature Conservancy of Canada Ducks Unlimited Canada Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations Ontario Invasive Plant Council Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters The deadline to submit applications (electronically) is my 11:59 PM, Thursday, May 30, 2024. To find out more or how to apply for the Invasive Phragmites Control Fund, please go to this page here.

Digital engagement has become increasingly important over the past 5 years. This is a “new” way forward that will help improve your Indigenous engagement results while vastly improving your clients bottom line goals. Perhaps the biggest advantage that digital (online) engagement has is the ability to offer continuous and accessible communication. Continuous and accessible communication is one of the pillars to a successful Indigenous engagement strategy. In addition, the internet is available anytime and anywhere overcoming time limitations, distance (and budget to an extent) that may otherwise deter engagement participation. For example, a community survey can be delivered digitally with next to no travel with very little expense to anyone with an internet connection. Compare that to hand delivering surveys to each community household which will take a lot of time and resources. Digital engagement also provides Indigenous Communities and stakeholders with a level platform from which to partake in dialogue. This is particularly useful in allowing for anonymity which may encourage greater stakeholder involvement and perhaps more passionate and honest input. Digital (online) tools can save time, money and resources if done correctly. Here's an example. Let's say you are responsible for gathering data for an Indigenous educational web portal. To ensure it's success, you need to travel to 10 remote communities and engage those communities to get their input on the types of tools, resources and content should be in the portal. The budget for this activity is $35,000 which includes airfare (for you and some participants), food, accommodations and venue rentals. This is a large undertaking that will take up a substantial amount of resources. The time allotted for this activity is 8 months. What if, instead of traveling to 10 different remote communities, you build a mini web portal with less than 10 web pages including one video presentation (detailing the project) and a survey for participants to fill out? Perhaps include a voting solution for participants? The cost for setting this up is less than a $5000 and the time to build such a mini portal is less than 10 days (which is a fraction of the time for offline activities). Related: Community Indigenous Engagement Methods Using certain incentives, participation can actually potentially increase all the while receiving more honest participation. Using a practical, digital strategy it is possible to get each participants contact information, including their email addresses to set up an email communication protocol. Once a participant opts in to receive more information you will keep in constant communication with each participant outlining the details about the project and status updates. All of this is automated. The total cost for a digital Indigenous engagement project is less than $5,000 including time, set up and technology. Perhaps the biggest advantage is that real time changes can be made (on the fly) to the mini portal including the content (video presentation and survey) which will help improve targeted participation. The estimated total time to completion is 3 months for this type of digital strategy. A traditional, offline approach will take close to a year. Let's take a look at some of the pro's and con's of a digital approach to Indigenous Engagement. Pro’s • Larger group can be surveyed • Reduction of Travel costs • Which can be huge on some projects • More effort spent on engaging and building relationships • A lot of “data” can be collected through polling and surveying the groups • Has the ability to allow more to have their opinion heard • Not the dominant voice in the room • Ability to stay in constant contact (via email contact strategy) • Reduce potential project time to completion Con’s • Hard to get the emotional connection to the community/group • Everyday life challenges • Children or pets walking into the frame • Shyness • People may not want to be on camera • Technological challenges • Internet speeds, enough computers The Benefit to Remote Indigenous Communities Provides a platform not only to reach the on reserve community/population but the broader off reserve community (that tends to be overlooked). • Saves on costs to the community. • Can still involve community interaction and follow protocol • Giveaways • May allow individuals to comment who would not normally do so. • However, not all membership may have the internet or access to a computer. The thing you have to remember is that the fundamental process and goals of Indigenous engagement remain the same for both, offline and online. Indigenous engagement and stakeholder management are arguably the most important ingredients for successful project delivery. Related: 5 Steps to Successful Indigenous Engagement For example, project Managers depend on people to respond to the outputs and benefits that they deliver (for both offline and online methods). People will only respond if they are engaged. The same in person methods can be used to engage but adapting them to digital methodology might be a "new normal" in certain circumstances. Related: Indian vs. Aboriginal vs. Indigenous...which term is correct? Communication Before aiming to engage and influence stakeholders, it’s crucial to seek to understand the people you will be working with and relying on throughout the phases of the project lifecycle. Sharing information with stakeholders is important, but it is equally important to first gather information about your stakeholders. Consult, early and often! A project, particularly in the early stages, may be unclear to its Indigenous communities and stakeholders for example, in terms of purpose, scope, risks and approach. Early, and regular consultation is essential to ensure that requirements are agreed and a delivery solution is negotiated that is acceptable to the majority of stakeholders. Remember, we are only human... • Accept that humans do not always behave in a rational, reasonable, consistent or predictable way and operate with an awareness of human feelings and potential personal agendas. • By understanding the root cause of stakeholder behaviour, you can assess if there is a better way to work together to maintain a productive relationship Related: 3 ways to effectively communicate technical information to First Nation communities Plan it! A more conscientious and measured approach to stakeholder engagement is essential and therefore encouraged. Investment in careful planning before engaging stakeholders can bring significant benefits. Relationships are Key Developing relationships with Indigenous Communities results in increased trust. And where there is trust, people work together more easily and effectively. Investing effort in identifying and building stakeholder relationships can increase confidence across the project environment, minimize uncertainty, and speed problem solving and decision-making. Just part of managing risk • Stakeholders are important influential resources and should be treated as potential sources of risk and opportunity within the project. • The initial step is to establish the most acceptable baseline across a set of stakeholders' diverging expectations and priorities. • Assess the relative importance of all stakeholders to establish a weighted hierarchy against the project requirements and agreed by the project Sponsor. Understand what success is Project success means different things to different people and you need to establish what your stakeholder community perceives success to be for them in the context of project delivery. Take responsibility Stakeholder engagement is not the job of one member of the project team. It’s the responsibility of everyone to understand their role and to follow the right approach to communication and engagement. Good project governance requires providing clarity about stakeholder engagement roles and responsibilities and what is expected of people involved in the project. Related: Understanding Indigenous Treaties in Ontario Digital Platforms There are many different types of digital platforms that can be used to help achieve your engagement goals. Depending on what your engagement goals are will depend on the types of digital tools you will need. Do you need to create a mini website or portal (to be used as your main focal point)? Do you need a video editor (to edit your information videos)? Do you need a conferencing video solution (to hold real time meetings)? Do you need an auto responder (to keep in constant communications with participants)? This will all depend on your engagement mission, vision and goals. There are many digital tools and platforms that you can choose from that are both paid and free. Of course, you get what you pay for and the paid solutions generally have limited solutions. Here are just some of the platforms you can use: Conferencing solutions: Zoom (our recommended solution) GotoMeeting TotoWebinar Microsoft Teams Google Meet Website solutions: Wix (Our recommended solution - probably the easiest to use to create a mini website) Weebly Go Daddy Wordpress Video editors Wondershare (Our recommended solution - very easy to use and understand) Adobe Premiere Pinacle Studio Image editors Canva (Our recommended solution - super easy to use, edit and create web graphics) Adobe Photoshop (powerful but a steep learning curve) Adobe Illustrator (very intuitive and powerful but very complex) Surveys Survey Monkey (Our recommended solution - powerful and easy to use) Typeform Qualaroo (great for website pop ups surveys) Whiteboard presentations Miro (Our recommended whiteboard solution - easy to use and very intuitive) Email strategy solutions Aweber (Our recommended solution - very powerful and can be integrated with most software solutions) Mailchimp GetResponse Voting Solutions One Feather (Our recommended digital voting solution) Document sharing solutions Google docs Dropbox These are just a sample of some of the digital solutions you may need for your Indigenous engagements. When using a conferencing solutions, please remember to limit the number of participants (Questions and answer periods cut into presentation/audience attention time, as well as slows down the system and creates lag time. Pro Tip** Make sure that your live conferencing is set to record. This way you can post it to your project website and use your email software (Aweber) to send out one email to direct people back to the video to watch. Very important to provide a call in option for participants but not the presenters! Here is an effective email tip to help improve your engagement efforts Trouble Shooting for Live Zoom Broadcasts • First and foremost – strong reliable internet connection. Test, test and re-test your connection to make sure it is reliabe. • Do test runs of your presentation and record it. Review your presentation with your team to make sure your visuals and audio are optimized. • Kick those kids off their tablets!!! And make them go outside. You will need your bandwidth! • Loose unnecessary webcam coverage. This bogs down the service and speed at which you are broadcasted out. Essential Items Here are some essential items when you are using a live zoom (conferencing) broadcast. • Microphone or headsets, • Webcam if you are doing a larger group rather then facing your laptop, • 5 G internet or Rocket stick to increase signal strength • Try and get as much light into your office or room as possible. If you are by a window, open up the shades and let the light in. • Tech support for larger groups (over 100 people). You will need someone who knows the technology and can make adjustments on the fly. Presentation Methodology Please remember that this is a team effort and not down to an individual. Work with your copy writer, tech and office team to make sure your presentation is crisp and clear. In addition, keep in mind that attentions spans are short when it comes to digital communications. Get to the point quickly and keep your presentation limited to 60 minutes and at the most, 90 minutes. Presentation must try to consider the following experiences of the participant: • Intellectual, • Emotional, and • The physical: • See, Hear, Touch, Taste and Hear (Understanding the last three are difficult but achievable.) Advertising Your Event Prior Depending on the size of the project you may need to use a variety of tools and software plateforms. At CIPS, we recommend a project website which can be used as a focal point for your project. This is where your targeted audience will go for up to date information, resources and tools. For example, you can upload a zoom call to the website (and create a special web page) so that your audience can view the video (for a replay or in case they missed the zoom session). Set up a social presence, such as a Facebook page for the project. Here you will keep your targeted audience fresh and up to date with real time updates. Your Facebook page will direct your audience to take specific actions. For example, a recorded zoom session can be converted to a video and stored on your project website. Using Facebook you can update all of your audience to go and view the replay in case they missed it. Your Facebook page should help educate, inform and entertain your targerted audience. You can also use other social platforms such as Instagam, Twitter and Linkedin. However, each platform takes a substantial amount of time to ensure its success so if your team is small, stick to one platform. If you have a big team, you can implement one or two additional platforms. Each platform has its own social methodology so make sure your team understand and knows how to use each platform. For example, Facebook is not like Twitter and Twitter is not like Instagram. Understand what works best for your company on each social platform. There are also more traditional advertising mediums such as radio, newspaper, community websites and email blasts. So how do we go about this? The first order of business is your first presentation This can be per-recorded prior to activation and will provide a project overview, introduces the purpose and the project team. It will also go over what the audiences are to expect within the realm of digital engagement. For example, digital surveys, Facebook groups, website, or other important digital tools that are going to be used. This may also be an opportunity to present follow up interactive surveys that can be later used in polling rules (similar to a purchased license of survey monkey). Second: Gathering- Inform This is to provide the public with balanced and objective information to assist them in understanding the problem, alternatives, opportunistic and/or solutions. Your promise to your client at this point is to make sure they are kept informed. Examples include fact sheets, websites and open houses. • This presentation is still to inform the Indigenous community and other stakeholders about further details of the work • All presentations will be recorded for access of participants • Surveys will be completed by participants (team to design) • The purpose is to share and be transparent of what has happened to date. Also make digitally available: -Fact Sheets -Website -Virtual Platform (email) to ask questions Third: Gathering- Engagement This is to obtain public feedback on analysis, alternatives and/or decisions. Your promise to the public at this stage is to keep everyone informed, listen to and acknowledge concerns and expectations. These are directly reflected in the alternatives that have been developed and provide feedback on how the public input influenced the decision. Examples include focus groups, surveys and public meetings. • This is where engagement starts to come into play, we survey participants on the level on engagement they need, record their concerns and develop more formal processes. • This may take potentially multiple online meetings or presentations. Examples may include community questions or comments forum, digital surveys, or live webinars. Forth: Gathering- Involve This is to work directly with the public throughout the process to ensure the public concerns and aspirations are consistently understood and considered. Your promise to the public is to work with them to ensure that their concerns and expectations are directly reflected in the alternatives developed. You will also provide feedback on how their (public) input influenced a certain decision. Examples include workshops and deliberative polling. Here are some example: • Ask the questions if there are specific topics they would like to be involved with, then possibly create working groups to help gather information. • Work with participants to make sure their questions are fully answered and concerns or expectations met. • Hold: • Additional workshops or webinars • Q & A polling Fifth: Gathering- Collaborate To partner with the public in each aspects of the decision including the development of alternatives and the identification of the preferred solutions. Your promise is to look to the public for advice and innovation in formulating solutions. You will incorporate those pieces of advice and recommendations into the decisions for maximum effect. Examples include citizen advisory committees, consensus building and participatory decision making. This gathering allows participants to help formulate solutions, incorporating advice from all project team members which can lead to developing: • Larger citizen advisory committees, • Youth and elder circles, • Consensus understanding and building; • Participant decision making processes. Sixth: Gathering- Empower To place final decision making in the hands of the public. Your promise is to implement what the public decides. Examples include ballots, delegated decisions and citizen juries. Your team will work with all parties to implement the best overall decision which is dependent on the outcomes and committees of the collaborative phase. Do not forget • Possibly provide training or online help for participants who have not used the digital platforms (YouTube is great for this). • At each meeting or gathering be sure to acknowledge and include (as much as possible) the communities protocols • Still be able to give out giveaways such as visa, MasterCard or other gifts This is a great time to get messages out to people. At this stage, people are looking to do things, interact with each other and still have some connection to community. Related: Indigenous Engagement Questions and Answers Conclusion We are living in a digital age and there are no signs that this is going to change. In fact, according to Canadian statistics (Statistita), Canada counts among the biggest online markets in the Americas. If fact, digital audiences in Canada are projected to grow to nearly 35 million online users by 2023. In 2021 86 percent of online adults had accessed the internet via desktop or laptop computer. This is not a trend and will only continue to grow with each passing year. The time to adapt to the digital age is upon us and by incorporating a digital strategy into your Indigenous Engagements will only enhance and improve your bottom line results. At CIPS we are experts in both offline and online Indigenous Engagements. We have been developing digital Indigenous Engagement strategies for years and have experts who know how to do it. We know which software platforms work best, which types of strategies to use and best of all we have the methodology for a successful Indigenous digital engagement. Give us a call today at (705) 657-1126 or by email at: spirit@indigenousaware.com To set up a short 15 minute consultation with our CEO, Mike Jacobs, please see this page here. Chi Miigwetch (thank you) and good luck!

The Anishinaabeg have been making maple syrup - ZIISSBAAKDOKE for centuries during ZIISSBAAKDOKE GIIZAS or sugar moon in March. During this time, we are encouraged to balance our lives as we would our blood sugar levels. Aannii (hello), Bozhoo (welcome), my name is Corey Kinsella and I am the Technical Advisor of Physical Sciences and Traditional Lands for Cambium Indigenous Professional Services. Today, I am going to show you my families traditional recipe for creating the perfect batch of golden maple syrup. I've been making maple syrup since I was a kid growing up in the Buckhorn area. For me, it is a special time of the year when we come together as a family and kick off the spring season. Making maple syrup is more of a tradition in my family. It is a time for us to shake off the winter blues and to get outside to enjoy the spring weather. The maple syrup making process isn't a very complicated one but like most recipes, it takes time, patience and some love to create a perfect batch of maple syrup. When I was asked by one of my team members about how maple syrup is made, I jumped at the chance to explain how I go about making the perfect batch of maple syrup. Below is my families step by step process on how to create the perfect batch of golden brown maple syrup. Step 1: Find the Perfect Maple Tree Stand The first step to making the perfect batch of maple syrup is to identify a maple stand that has enough trees to make the desired amount of maple syrup. Two full size maple trees will produce between a half and a full gallon of maple syrup. To make 5 gallons of maple syrup, you will need to tap between 10 and 15 full grown sugar maple trees. You will want to make sure there is a stand of maple trees rather than one or two maple trees (if you plan on making more than a few jars of maple syrup). Personally, I enjoy giving out my maple syrup to friends and family (as presents) so I need a maple stand (or sugar bush) that has a multitude of full grown maple trees. You will need to judge how much maple syrup you need compared to how many maple trees your have access to. If you tap 2 full grown maple trees they can potentially produce (on the low end), half gallon of maple syrup (which is roughly 64 ounces). This will yield (roughly) two 34 ounce mason jars of maple syrup. At the top end, two full grown maple tree will produce a full gallon of maple syrup (128 ounces) which will yield four, 34 ounces of maple syrup. You will need to estimate how much maple syrup you plan on making (Pro tip! Estimate how much you "need" and add a tad more...just in case) compared to how many maple trees you will need to tap. Alright, let's find out how big your maple trees need to be to optimize your sap collection! Step 2: How Big Should A Sugar Maple Tree For Optimal Sap Collecting? Ideally, you want a maple tree that is at least 8 inches in diameter. This type of maple tree will be nice and juicy with plenty of maple sap which can potentially produce between 10 and 20 gallons of maple sap which will yield a quarter gallon of maple syrup. Pro tip! Try and find a maple tree that is not peppered with tap holes (especially fresh tap holes). Now that you have found your maple stand and identified the juiciest maple trees, it's time to tap! Step 3: Tap The Sugar Maple Tree The next step is to tap the tree (s). I love this part of the process! This is where we "get the goods". This is an exciting step because we find out how much maple sap a tree will yield. Kind of like playing bingo! Now, there are a variety of methods that can be used to collect the maple sap. The first and easiest method is the collection pail method. This is the "no frills" method and is super easy to do. Punch a hole in the maple tree using a spout, attached a pail and you are ready to rock! If you don't have a hanger for your pail, hammer a nail into the tree just above the spout. Hang your pail from the nail and you are ready to start collecting that awesome maple sap! However, if you can, try and get a collection pail kit. Personally, I prefer to use a collection pail kit specifically for maple sap (it makes it so much easier). Sort of like a one stop shop (instead of buying separate items at your local hardware store). The kit contains five, 2 gallon sap buckets, five lids and sap spouts. All you need is a drill with a 1/4 inch drill bit (or you can do this manually), and a hammer. The cost for a collection pail kit is about 50 bucks CAD (Canadian Tire). Considering the low cost, this method will allow you to collect A LOT of sap! Before you start, make sure you sanitize your equipment first. A quick wash will do the job. The height of your spout should be about 4 feet off the ground, facing south. Don't know where south is? Look at the branches of the tree. If all the branches are bunched on one side, that's where south is. Branches grow in abundance where there is a lot sunlight (facing south). Make sure there your tap hole is at least 5 inches away from previous taps. I suggest you use a 1/4 inch drill bit. That will create a hole that will allow most spouts to fit into. This is important - Angle your drill slightly upwards! This will make sure gravity does it's job and creates a nice downward flow so the maple sap automatically drips into the pail. You may have to use a "back and forth" method to ensure your hole is big enough for your spout (see me using the drill in the video below) Pro tip! When you are drilling into the tree, examine the wood shavings to see if your tap spot is a good one. Light coloured shavings indicates a good spot while dark brown shaving can indicate a poor spot. If you find dark coloured shaving, do yourself a favour and find another drill spot!). Next, use a hammer and lightly tap the spout into the hole so that is nice and secure. Next, attach the bucket to the spout hanger, cover and you are good to go! I like these buckets because they are very light coloured which allows me to see how full the buckets are at a distance. The sap collection pail kits can be purchased a Home Hardware, Walmart, Canadian Tire, Home Depot and most other hardware stores (for about 50 bucks CAD). You can also do this manually without a sap collection kit. This method requires the following equipment: - A drill with a quarter inch bit - A hammer (rubber mallet if possible) - A spout (metal or plastic) - A nail or hanger (to hold the pail) - A large (food safe) bucket (2 gallon capacity if possible) - A lid for the bucket The second method uses a spout and line. This method requires a drill, spout, line (to collect the sap), pail and a cover. Drill a (slightly) upwards hole using a 1/4" drill bit into the tree facing south. Lightly hammer the spout which is connected to the line) into tree. Place the end of line into the bucket and cover. This is a more structured process. In terms of cost you're looking at 15 bucks for the spouts, 30 bucks for the lines, and 10 bucks for a 3 gallon pail. For about a hundred bucks you can get a half decent spout and line operation going for collecting maple sap. Step 4: Collecting the Maple Sap Once you've collected the sap (from your maple trees), pour your sap collection buckets into your sap storage buckets (I prefer 5 gallon buckets). Make sure your storage buckets re-sanitized. Place a cheesecloth over the top of your storage buckets and pour your sap into the storage buckets. The cheesecloth will help filter out any debris and dirt. Once all your sap has been added to the collection buckets, cover the lids and store your sap until you are ready for processing (boil). Ideally, you want to process your sap with 6 to 7 days of collection (and stored in a cool place). Step 5: Boiling the Sap! I love this step - Boiling the sap! This is where maple syrup is made. Personally, I perform two boils. My first boil is a bulk boil that reduces the sap from a clear colour to a brownish hue. Once my sap turns to a brownish hue, I prepare for my second boil. I generally do my first boil outdoors and either use an evaporator (which uses a propane fuel source) or a cast iron stove to boil my sap. You can also make a fire pit and place a grilling rack over the fire to boil your sap. Depends on what kind of equipment you have on hand. Boiling sap creates A LOT of steam which is why I recommend you do this outdoors. I love to hang out with family or friends and make a day out of it. Now, you will want to make sure that the heat is even. If it's too hot the sap will boil over. If it is too low, the sap won't boil. What you're looking for is steady and even boiling bubbles. You will have to eyeball this a bit and adjust your heat source accordingly. Pro Tip* You may notice a foam developing over the top of your sap as you boil. Use a wooden spoon (or a skimming spoon) to shave off the foam. It will take roughly 4 to 5 hours to boil 5 gallons of sap. 5 gallons of maple sap will boil down to about 20 ounces of maple syrup (for the first and second boil). (Related: Does Maple Syrup Have Sugar?) Your first boil will be outdoors. This is usually an all day event so make sure you set aside at least 5 hours for your boil. Fill your boiling pot 3/4 of the way and start your boil. As the sap evaporates, keep adding more sap to the boil until the sap starts to turn golden brown (ish). The Second Boil Once your sap is ready for the second boil (after the sap has turned to a brownish colour), you will filter the sap and prepare (for the second boil). Your second boil can be performed indoors (for smaller batches). I suggest you filter your sap (to get rid of any debris) and pour into an iron (5 quart) stove pot. Use a cheesecloth to filter your maple sap. I suggest you use a digital thermometer to measure the heat of the sap (Pro tip* make sure the thermometer bulb is not touching the bottom of the pot). Set your heat to medium to get the sap boiling. Boil the sap until it reaches a temperature of 219 degrees. Once that temperature is reached continue boiling for another minute. Let your syrup cool until the temperature reaches 180 degrees (F). After it reaches this temperature, filter once more to get rid of any debris or remove "candy sugar". Use a new filter for each boil. Now, what if you don't have a digital thermometer? Alternatively, you can use a spoon to measure the syrup consistency. Dip the spoon into the syrup. If the syrup comes off in drops, it's not ready. If the syrup comes off in a stream, it's ready to go. I recommend you use food grade filters to filter your syrup but if worse comes to worse, you can use coffee filters for smaller batches. You will want to filter into a clean container (using a new filter for each new batch). Finally, prepare your bottles for the maple syrup. Make sure the bottles are clean with seal-able caps. Any type of glass jar or bottle will do. I personally prefer 34 ounce mason jars. If I plan on giving my maple syrup away as gifts, I will label them with a nice graphic on them! It adds a nice touch. Finally, pour your maple syrup into the mason jars and there you go...Freshly made maple syrup! There you have it, my step by step process on how to make maple syrup! The most important piece of advice I can give to anyone who wants to make maple syrup is to have fun! Here is a quick step by step summary of my maple syrup creation process: Step 1: Find a maple stand. Find enough maple trees to make the desired amount of maple syrup; Step 2: Identify maple trees within the maple stand that are big enough to tap for maple sap; Step 3: Tap the maple tree for sap using the collection pail method or the spout and line method; Step 4: Collect the maple sap. Using either the collection pail method or the spout and line method, collect the desired amount of maple sap to make pure maple syrup; Step 5: Making the maple syrup. Boil number one will reduce the sap into a brownish colour. The second boil will reduce the brown maple sap into pure maple syrup. I hope you enjoyed this article on how I make maple syrup If you enjoyed this article, check out my other articles on my bio page at: Corey Kinsella CIPS. Related Articles How to make cedar tea Where to find fiddlehead ferns Seed dispersal methods What does sweetgrass look like?

The short answer is yes, maple syrup contains sugar. One tablespoon of maple syrup contains 11 grams of sugar which is comparable to table sugar which contains 12.5 grams of sugar. So….what is the difference between maple syrup and regular white sugar? The thing you have to remember is that sugar is sugar and all carbohydrates (including maple syrup) converts to sugar in the body (once it is consumed and broken down by the body). The difference is how quickly carbohydrates convert to sugar once consumed by the body. That is the question. By nature, sugar will convert to glycogen in the body very quickly. Once consumed, glucose (sugar) will be broken down by the body and used as energy rather quickly, hence the term…sugar rush. Ever see a child eat a bunch of candy and go absolutely crazy for a half hour or so? Or have you ever wondered why athletes consume fruits or sports drinks during a sporting event or competition? This is why. The body will convert basic sugars that are contained in candy, fruits and sports drinks into glycogen (energy) almost as fast as they are consumed. This provides the body with instant energy. However, this is a double edged sword. Consistent and excessive consumption of sugar will cause your body to metabolize any leftover sugar that it can’t use (as fuel or stored), or eliminate as waste into body fat. The body will do this rather quickly so keep this in mind! In addition, consistent and excessive consumption of sugars (over time) can lead to insulin resistance which can lead to diabetes. The thing you have to remember about maple syrup is that one tablespoon contains 13.42 total carbohydrates of which, 11 grams is sugar. This means that most of its nutritional make up is sugar. Regular process white sugar has 12.6 grams of carbohydrates of which, 12.5 grams is sugar. Not much difference between maple syrup and regular sugar in terms of their respective sugar levels. However, there are a few differences between the two, which makes maple syrup a much healthier choice as a sweetener. Is Pure Maple Syrup Healthy? First, due to its organic and unprocessed nature, maple syrup won’t be broken down in the body as quickly as sugar. This is a good thing because maple syrup won’t cause as much of a blood sugar spike as regular sugar does. Please remember, maple syrup will still cause a sharp increase in blood sugars if large amounts are consumed (IE: anymore than 3 tablespoons which equals 36 plus grams of sugar). Secondly, maple syrup is not as processed as white sugar so it retains a lot of its nutritional values. Remember, foods that are closest to their natural state will ALWAYS be a healthier choice. By design, our bodies are made to digest whole foods (and not processed foods such as white sugar). Maple syrup contains plenty of anti-oxidants, calcium (for bone health), vitamins (such as riboflavin which helps with energy production), electrolytes (potassium) and minerals (such as magnesium and manganese). It is interesting to note that manganese helps regulate blood sugar, helps with bone health, helps to reduce inflammation and helps lower cholesterol. Potassium helps ensure your muscles are contracting the way they should and minimizing muscle cramps. On the other hand, white sugar contains ZERO nutritional advantages, nothing…nada. Personally, I enjoy adding a teaspoon of pure maple syrup to my teas or coffees. It gives it a nice warm, maple taste plus I get a slight health benefit (everything helps, right?) with each cup. How Much Maple Syrup Is Safe To Consume? Here is the nutritional value of 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. For men, the daily recommended intake of sugar is up to 35 grams and for women, up to 25 grams. This includes all of your daily sugars from fruits, vegetables, drinks and foods. One tablespoon of maple syrup contains close to 12 grams of sugar which is 30% of your recommended daily intake of sugar. Two tablespoons and you are up to 60% of your recommended daily intake of sugar. Although maple syrup is a healthier choice than processed white sugar, it is STILL sugar. Any more than 4 tablespoons of maple syrup during the day will put you over and above the recommended daily intake of sugar. Depending on how much fruits you consume during the day (which can be high in sugars), 1 to 2 tablespoons of maple syrup (daily) is a safe bet. I wouldn’t use any more than two tablespoons of maple syrup in one sitting. Conclusion: Does Maple Syrup Have Sugar And Is It Healthy For You? Yes, maple sugar does have sugar. In fact, it is mostly sugar. However, due to its unprocessed nature, maple syrup retains most of its nutritional values from sap to syrup. It contains vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants and electrolytes which contribute to better overall health. Maple syrup is a much better choice than white, processed sugar which has next to no nutritional values (due to its processed nature). As you can see from the table below, although maple syrup has just about as much sugar as regular white process sugar, it retains more electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals (trace elements). Remember, sugar is sugar and once consumed it will convert rather quickly into glycogen (energy). Regardless of your choice of sweetener, keep your intake to one tablespoon (two tablespoons at a maximum) daily. Related articles: How to make maple syrup How to make cedar tea Seed dispersal methods