HIGHLAND COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — Puffenbarger’s Sugar Orchard in Blue Grass, Virginia, announced this week that it will remain closed for the final weekend of the Highland County Maple Festival, citing an unprecedented shortage of maple syrup. In a statement posted on social media, the family‑run operation said severe winter weather led to “only 50 percent of normal production,” and that they sold out of their entire inventory during the festival’s opening weekend.

The sugar camp reported that the late‑January snow and ice storm had an extensive impact on their operation and contributed to what they described as their “worst season ever.” Despite the setback, the Puffenbarger family remains optimistic about a rebound in 2027.

A post on Facebook read: “THANKS to everyone who stopped by, purchased our pure Highland County Maple Syrup, and supported us! We appreciate you all! Here’s to a better 2027 Maple Syrup Season!  Thank you and God Bless! Doug and Terri Puffenbarger and family.”

Festival organizers note that nine other sugar camps will be open across Highland County March 21 and 22, offering tours, tastings, and maple products. Visitors should, however, be aware that supplies may be limited due to the challenging season.

Full details about the county-wide event can be found at www.highlandcounty.org/maple-festival/