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21 Chapter 2: Forestry Products and Techniques

Maple Syrup Mature maple trees, characterized by trunks that are at least 12 inches (30 centimeters) in diameter and a large canopy will produce the most sap . It is important to watch the temperature in late winter and very early spring to know when it is time to tap a maple tree. When daytime temperatures reach 40°F (4.4°C) or higher, and nighttime temperatures dip below freezing, then the sap within the structure of the tree begins to flow. In order to capture the sap running within the structure of the tree, a small hole is drilled into the tree. Then a small

A maple tree with a tap to collect sap, which will become syrup.