eric t. jones

Professor, Oregon State University, College of Forestry

Springfield, OR

August 25th, 2025

Tucked away in the suburbs of Eugene, Oregon, we explored all that goes into the small industry of maple taping in the Pacific Northwest. Walking through a winding path surrounded by Big Leaf Maples on either side of us we entered a greenhouse to learn about the collection process of maple sap. Eric T. Jones, professor at Oregon State University in the College of Forestry, has dedicated himself to developing a network of maple syrup producers on the west coast.

Born and raised in Salem, Oregon, he has always been surrounded by the large timber industry. Trained as an anthropologist, Eric has spent most of his career studying non-timber forest products, beginning with understanding the commercial viability and the cultural significance of such products.

Eric has continued to explore other types of non-timber forest products, including Oregon Grape, an important wildcrafted herb. Notably, he played a pivotal role in creating the market for maple syrup in the Pacific Northwest, which has included the creation of Oregon laws to make it possible for non-commercial companies to sell their syrup.

by Ashley Hagen