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Research Update on Birch Sap & Syrup Trials

For the past several years we have been conducting researcg and extension on tapping birch trees for their sap and syrup production. This article presents some of the lessons learned to date on some of the most frequently asked questions about tapping birch trees.

Rethinking how we determine sap prices

A table to help determine sap prices, and commentary on the factors that should be considered when purchasing sap.

Sanitation, Clogging, or Both: A Comparison Study of 3/16″ and 5/16″ Maple Tubing

It is well recognized that microbial contamination of tubing systems can result in a substantial loss in sap yield if untreated. Over a decade of research and maple industry experience has produced a range of possible strategies to address sanitation-related issues in 5/16Ó tubing systems (Perkins et. al. 2019). Although rapidly adopted by many maple producers, due to the relatively short time period in which it has been in widespread use, there is far less understanding of sanitation in 3/16Ó tubing systems (Wilmot 2018). To address this knowledge deficit, we conducted a multi-year study at the UVM Proctor Maple Research Center to examine sanitation-related losses in 3/16Ó tubing systems to determine which approach(es) might best mitigate sap losses due to sanitation.

Sap Collection from Small-Diameter Trees

For several years, we 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.

Sap Prices

Table presenting suggested prices per gallon for a maple producer to purchase sap.

Shelf Life Extension of Maple Cream

Pure maple cream has a shelf life of less than one month if stored at room temperature. The maple cream may mold and physically separate into its maple syrup component during this period. The current product requires refrigeration to achieve an acceptable shelf life of 6 months. Our goal was to develop a process to attain 6 months shelf life at room temperature.

Should Lateral Lines Be Vented?

A great deal has changed since the 1960s and 1970s in terms of maple production and recommended practices, especially given the introduction of the new polyethylene tubing formulations and new types of spouts. Consequently, we are occasionally asked whether lateral lines in gravity tubing installations should be vented. As a result of these questions, we compared sap yield from standard non vented (closed) 5/16″ lateral lines alongside a vented 5/16″ installation under gravity conditions.