Michigan maple syrup production highest since 1964

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture says Michigan produced an estimated 100,000 gallons of maple syrup this year.

That's 67 percent more than last year's 60,000 gallons and the most since 1964, when 110,000 gallons were produced.

The USDA said Tuesday the state's tapping season was relatively short, with most producers starting later than usual.

But cold nights and slightly warmer days helped boost the output of maple syrup.

U.S. production totaled an estimated 1.64 million gallons in 2008. That's a 30 percent increase from last year.

Vermont led all states with 500,000 gallons, up 11 percent. Michigan ranked sixth both this year and last year.