In 1905, Joséphus Besner, with the help of his father Olivier, purchased what was to become the Besner family farm. Located just 2km west of the Québec border, the property had great potential with its rolling hills and promising woodlot. Our ancestor invested time and effort into harvesting the land and setting up the sugarbush. Many traditional family gatherings took place around the sugar shack.

Alphonse Besner, son of Joséphus, grew up on the family farm located in the agricultural community of Glengarry. He moved away to start a family of his own and prosper as a land owner in western Québec. In 1946, he came back and took over the Besner homestead, living off the land he fondly called “God’s Country”. There, he honed his skills as a dairy and maple syrup producer.

Brothers Bernard and Guy Besner took over the reins in 1964 but continued to benefit from Alphonse’s dedication and expertise in every aspect of life on the farm. When their father retired in 1977, they decided to rebuild the sugar shack and modernize both the equipment and process. In doing so, they improved the quality of the product and maximized the sap collection, all in keeping with family tradition.

Jean-François, Bernard’s oldest son, followed his heart after getting his business degree. In 1993, he married his college sweetheart and purchased the Besner farm. Twenty years later, the decision was made to close the chapter on dairy and focus on agricultural and maple production. Since then, there have been continuous efforts to expand the scope and potential of the maple grove.

Besner Maple Treats is the result of four generations of maple syrup producers working with love and passion to bring you the “sweet liquid gold” that some drink straight from the can. Owner Jean-François Besner works to ensure the sustainability of the woodlot so that it may thrive for generations to come. He is committed to quality and looks forward to satisfying your tastebuds, today and tomorrow.