Historical Trends in Massachusetts

That's a nice jump in taps. I might tap one of two more trees. But, with my barrel evap hard to scale up too much since I batch boil. I'll be interested to hear how you like the 2x3 as you work with it this year. Happy tapping!

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Originally Posted by Biz

Here is when I have started tapping for the past 20+ years. Prior to 2015 I had all buckets so I tended to tap later in season. I have many more taps out now, and mostly tubing, so I can afford to start earlier than I used to. I can't say that I always tapped at the correct time, sometimes a bit too early, sometimes a bit late, but generally close. We are in central Mass at 1000' elevation on the shoulder of Mt Wachusett so the climate is more like western Mass.

2019 Feb 23 (planned)
2018 Feb 10, 14
2017 Feb 18
2016 Feb 19
2015 Feb 28
2014 Mar 8
2013 Mar 3
2012 Feb 28
2011 Mar 5
2010 Mar 5
2009 Mar 7
2008 Mar 2
2007 Mar 3
2006 Mar 8
2005 Mar 16
2004 Feb 29
2003 Mar 15
2002 Feb 24
2001 Mar 11
2000 Mar 3
1999 Feb 14 (too early)
1998 Feb 20
1997 Mar 8

I have records of tapping in Chesterfield (buckets only) going back to the 70's so if I get a chance to dig them out I will post them.

Dave

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That's a great collection of data Dave!!!! I have not tapped yet. Changed a few things around in the woods. I'll tap my 3/16" lines tomorrow night after work. May not tap along Page Brook for a few weeks. Those trees always flow late season.

In central MA (Harvard), I’m thinking about riding the wave starting this week Thursday with 4 consecutive days in the 40s and cold nights, but after that the forecast turns cold again for the next week so I’m not sure. Sap may run those colder days but not as much. Might be better to wait. I could use more time to get ready so I won’t mind another week or two delay.

Tom

This year in Needham, the best window was:
March 6 - March 24
Footnote: Some good days in late Feb/Early March but we also had some days in there w single digits and a couple of major wind storms (gusting 40 MPH)

This Feb is so mild compared to last year and those freezing cold days with windstorms. 10 day forecast in metrowest area shows more temps in the low 40s, nights in the 20s and 30s. Might have to tap early this year. Looking like mid Feb as opposed to first week of March.