The extreme weather systems affecting the Midwest did not prevent local senior citizens in Lake County from coming out for maple syrup hikes at the Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods. The Senior Series session, which included a seniors-focused hike from Lake and Cook counties, was the only one offered for seniors this maple syrup season. Jen Berlinghof, environmental educator for the Lake County Forest Preserves, described this year's maple syrup production as "erratic" due to fluctuating weather conditions. Approximately six gallons of Ryerson maple syrup have been made this year to be used for sampling and for volunteers at a thank-you meal at the end of the season.