Need help with all things maple

[cjf12]

Is there a place a person could go to see all the different equipment associated with producing syrup? Thinking about possibilities with our operation but feeling clueless with what is all available let alone how it all works. Would love to see it all in person even if it isn't in operation just to get a better understanding how everything works. From different style evaps, RO's, filter presses and whatever else you guys are using to keep a business going in syrup. Anyone in central Pa area open for a visit.

[Cedar Eater]

There's subforum called Tapping Pennsylvania - 2017 that might help you reach more PA people.

[VT_K9]

At the end of the year (Sugar Season) there are often open houses at the major supplier/manufacturers. You can also develop a rapport with a sales person and have them come to your location to discussion options best suited for you. This helps them provide recommendations when you are thinking about an extra "widget" for your operation.

You can visit other operations too. Take pictures, many pictures. Sometimes you may not be looking for type of equipment or how it is used, rather in the end you may look for ideas on setup in the sugar house, RO room, kitchen, etc.

Then once you think you have everything figured out come back here with a long narrative with your thoughts and plans, revealing what you are comfortable with. I know I like seeing what others have done, are doing, or thinking about. It may save me money, time, and disappointment.

We are considering an expansion, likely the end of the next season. It would put us in the another league. It was an experience going from 18-25 gallons to 36 gallons to 64 gallons then 84, and last year to 104. The biggest adaptation for us is the final processing and bottling of the syrup due to the quantity. ALso cleaning the evaporator more often. Good luck in your search.

Mike

[Russell Lampron]

Are there any sugar makers near you? If so stop in for a visit. Most sugar makers are happy to show off their set up and to share information with other fellow sugar makers. It doesn't matter how big the operation is either. I have 700 taps myself and have visited and talked with producers that are doing it on turkey fryers as well as producers that have 80,000 taps. I have shown off my set up to many sugar makers on this forum. If you ever come to Loudon, NH I would be more than happy to show you around especially if you come when I can show you my woods too.

[BAP]

If you want to see it all in one location, make a trip to Swanton Vt at the end of April for the weekend that all is the major manufacturers have big open house at the same time.