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A while back Dr. Tim posted on here about only using one drop per tree no matter what the size. I believe he said that's what they do at the PMRC.
Dr. Tim, what are the pro's and con's of this method and would you advise new producers to go this route? Is this method beneficial on natural not high vacuum scenarios?
Thank you!
I think he may have been referring to high vac systems. The increase in sap from the 2nd or 3rd taps on the same tree are minimal. I think gravity on tubing or buckets would be different.
To avoid writing a book on the subject, mostly because we are already doing that...if you wait until summer you'll find your answer in the 3rd edition of the North American Maple Syrup Producers Manual. :DQuote:
Originally Posted by Ultimatetreehugger
Looking forward to taking a look at that, Thank you for the update.
Awesome. I'm helping a new producer setting up a new woods and was wondering if I should advise this method. I look forward to the updated book as well!
Since there is some uncertainty, the easiest would be to set up the new woods with 1 tap. You can always go and add in another drop later if you decide to after reading the new recommendations when come out. Some people will be happy, others will be unhappy. Can't please everyone.Quote:
Originally Posted by Ultimatetreehugger
We have gone to one tap per tree , I have been drilling holes in trees for 25 years here. I started last year to take the second taps off and we have removed about 700 taps. Most of these trees are 18” and larger, We sit at 4000 taps now and we are having our best year ever. Sap runs are no different than in the past . It took me too long to realize that I don’t need that extra tap when running high vacuum .