When we think of maple syrup we generally think of the sugar maple – a tree native to the east coast of North America. However, other maple trees can be used to create this breakfast table favorite. In this lecture Joe McGilvra will discuss his ongoing work on developing methods for the creation of maple syrup using the sap of Oregon’s native big leaf maple. The discussion will include an overview of some of the challenges presented by big leaf maple and techniques that can be used at home if you want to create native maple syrup of your own. --- Nature Works is a series of lectures and learning events reflecting on how natural resources and the variety of industries and activities they support intersect with our daily lives. Covering topics from the practical to the philosophical (and always educational), this series will examine the many ways natural resources form the backbone of our community and what it takes to keep these resources sustainable and productive for everyone.