The 3/16 phenomenon
Using smaller-diameter tubing can create a natural vacuum which can increase sap production. This article details some research into this method of sap collection, and offers tips on some practical applications.
Institution: UVM Proctor Maple Research Center
Showing 111 – 120 of 164 resources
Testing tapping depth vs. sap yield
Results from research into the impact of tap hole depth on sap yield.
Does sugar removal impact trees? A complex question to answer.
Two main issues relate to the sustainability of maple sugaring; tree wounding and sugar removal. In other words, does a tapped maple tree grow more wood than is compartmentalized (functionally “removed by the tree’s normal wound response process) each year and/or does sap collection take more sugar from the tree than can be readily replaced through photosynthesis? These two issues, although separate in some respects, are inextricably intertwined.
Cloudiness’ effect on refractometer measurements
Accurately measuring density is critical to the production of pure maple syrup. This article explores how impurities in syrup can affect the accuracy of tools used to measure density.
Results from the 2014 New England tapping survey
Results of an annual survey conducted of New England sugarmakers, capturing information on production practices and results, such as types of equipment used, sap sugar content, sanitation practices, and other data.
Should droplines be replaced when using check valve adapters or spouts?
Since check valve adaptors and spouts reduce sap backflow, this research studied whether or not dropline replacement is as important to improving sap yield when using these taps.
A model of the tapping zone
This article is intended to accompany the Tapping Zone Model available to download at the University of Vermont Proctor Maple Research Center (UVM-PMRC) website. It provides a general explanation of the model and how it can be used. The model can be used to estimate the chances of hitting conductive and nonconductive wood when tapping, and this can be used to assess the sustainability of current or planned tapping practices.
A Model of the Tapping Zone
A model that calculates the proportions of conductive and nonconductive wood in the tapping zone of a tree over time given user-input values for tree diameter and tapping practices.
How often should you replace droplines?
Many studies have demonstrated the benefits of replacing droplines on sap yields. The research outlined in this article outlines several replacement strategies to allow producers to determine the cost-effectiveness of each.
Sap Collection from Small-Diameter Trees
For several years, PMRC researchers conducted research on the collection of sap from small-diameter maple trees. This document outlines the basic concepts, techniques, and applications of this type of sap collection.