RANDOLPH – With preschoolers and area sugarmakers flanking him, Gov. James Douglas will tap one of the state’s famed sugar maples on March 19 as part of Vermont’s Annual Governor’s Tree Tapping.

The event, held for nearly three decades, is meant to start off the sugaring season, introduce the public to the industry and bring attention to Vermont’s renowned maple products.

Vermont is by far the nation’s largest maple producer, creating 920,000 gallons in 2009. The “pure Vermont maple” label also contributes to the state’s reputation for quality products and helps drive the tourist industry.

“Maple sugar is an important part of Vermont’s history, heritage and economy,” said Gov. Douglas. “The maple industry not only provides income and jobs for our state, but it reinforces Vermont’s reputation for quality.

“That’s why I am proud to support sugarmakers throughout our state.”

This year’s Governor’s Tree Tapping is being hosted by the Orange County Maple Producers Association – one of 12 active county maple organizations in Vermont.

A tree in front of Gifford Medical Center’s Thrift Shop in Randolph will be tapped by the governor at 11 a.m. Children from the neighboring Robin’s Nest Child Enrichment Center at Gifford are invited to the tapping. The tapping will be preceded by coffee and donuts served out of a mobile sugarhouse at 10:30 a.m.

The public is invited to attend.

A luncheon follows in the hospital’s Conference Center with maple-inspired food prepared by Gifford’s professional chefs.