The sap is GUSHING!

So far it's been a pretty steady spring with the sap just gently trickling each day. At least that was the case until a few days ago. Now, we have been having absolutely perfect weather for maple syruping and the sap is gushing. Each day, the five-gallon pails attached to each of the 500 taps are full to the brim. On Sunday we collected over 1,000 gallons of sap and we still didn't get it all. The maple syrup season of 2009 is turning out to be a real winner.

How to prepare for the sap flow

The sap is just starting to trickle. It's not a full sap flow just yet, but it'll be any day now. Some of the trees are flowing but many are not. We are just waiting for the ground to thaw just a little more; the trees should be gushing by this weekend if the weather holds up.

Anyone who is interested in making maple syrup, should be prepared to:
1.) be spontaneous -- the sap flow is weather-dependent. Sap only flows when there are freezing nights and warm days. Without that, there is no sap, so if you want to come and help, you'll need to be flexible, watch the weather, and be ready as soon as the sap flows.
2.) be ready to get dirty -- it's the muddiest time of the year, so plan to play in the mud.
3.) have the right apparel -- boots, gloves (rubber or leather) a light jacket, sun glasses, a cap; remember, you're in the woods with lots of shrubs and branches which can swat you in the face if you're not careful
4.) enjoy the surroundings -- the birds are returning for the spring, the snow is melting, you're enjoying the company of friends, and the smell of boiling maple sap is heavenly.
5.) sleep well -- it's a lot of work, but it's a lot of fun, and you can be guaranteed that you'll sleep well that night.
6.) wake up early -- be sure to get up early enough the next morning to make pancakes topped with fresh maple syrup. Nothing can beat that!

Stay tuned, we'll keep you updated on what's happening at Sapsucker Farms this season and hope you have a happy sugaring season too!

2009 Maple Syrup Season

The 2009 maple syrup season is here! Today at Sapsucker Farms is tree tapping day. There is still some snow on the ground, but it is quickly melting and turning into mud. Ahhhh, what fun it is to play in the mud! It only took a little over three hours to set all 500 taps, tubes, buckets and lids. It was all made possible with the help of 10 friends, along with 25 hot dogs, two bags of chips, three cases of pop, and a large package of cookies. Thanks to all who helped out.
The sap should be running very soon. We'll keep you posted on what's happening here on the farm throughout the sugaring season.