BANGOR – The New England agricultural statistics field office of the U.S. Department of Agriculture will survey maple syrup producers after this spring’s season.

“The statistics generated are the basis for decisions by producers and maple industry representatives throughout the region,” said Gary Keough, director of the New England field office, National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Last spring, the six New England states produced 773,000 gallons of maple syrup, 12 percent below production in 2006. Nationwide, according to NASS, syrup production decreased 13 percent.

New England produces 61 percent of all U.S. syrup. Maine is second to Vermont.

Keough said that once the sugaring season winds down in April, 2,200 questionnaires will be mailed to producers. Those who do not return their forms will be contacted by telephone.

Survey results will be available at www.nass.usda.gov June 10.