Local maple syrup producers, consumers face uncertainty amid tariffs [Video]

LINN COUNTY, Iowa (KCRG) – Hundreds of trees at Indian Creek Nature Center have been producing the sap used to make maple syrup for decades.

“Maple syrup was the first crop in Iowa,” John Myers, executive director of the Indian Creek Nature Center, said.

Myers said it’s a key part of the center’s programs and income.

He’s hoping rising prices on Canadian goods could drive more people to shop local.

“Indian Creek Nature Center sells both local syrup and Wisconsin syrup in our gift shop,” Myers said. “There’s the opportunity to keep prices low when you buy local.”

Right now, a gallon of syrup is $85. That’s up 10 percent from three years ago. Last year, the center bought 75 gallons to supplement their gift shop.

Equipment prices are also expected to rise.

All of these price increases impact their bottom line.

“The bags, the holders, all of those things are getting more and more expensive,” Myers said. “A lot of them are metal based and …