Quebec maple producer concerned COVID-19 will leave sugar shacks empty

As the province takes steps to limit public gatherings of more than 250 people and discourage seniors aged 70 and over from leaving the house, one Quebecsugar shack owner is concerned about makingends meet.

"It's the start of the main season for us. It's about 60 to 65 per cent of our business that happens in these two months," saidJean-PaulTardif, co-owner of rablire du Cap inLvis, Que.

"If no one comes to see us, we're going to have a big problem."

The maple syrup season runs from about mid-March to the end of April.

He said for many maple producers, it's crowds of Quebecers and tourists alike who come for sleigh rides, large community buffets and live entertainment thatkeeps them afloat.

Given the circumstancesin Quebec, with 24 cases of COVID-19confirmed as of Saturday, Tardif istaking steps to reassure people and reduce the contamination risk.

The traditional sugar shack experience often involves big communal tables and large trays that come around laden with pancakes, sausages and baked beans.

This year,Tardif has opted to spread out individual tables across the large space, meaning that each group gets individual table service and is distanced from other patrons. Normally Tardif'srablire du Cap can fit about 400 people.

He's also introduced more cleaning measures, including a dedicated employee to go around cleaning door handles and other frequently touched surfaces.

Tardif said for now, his sugar shack remains open, but if people don't come, he will have no choice but to close.