I’ve had good luck so far with several of my next door Neighbors, 5 for 5 now. I think it helps that we’re all close neighbors. It has actually brought us a little closer as friends. I’ve promised syrup only and the amount is related to their number of taps, the sapntheyre producing, and also any effort they put in. A neighbor last year collected all their buckets, brought them to my place along with some wood to burn. I gave them about 3 quarts out of my total 7 gallons, for around 6 taps. Others I gave only a pint. One neighbor this year seemed reluctant and I was ready to give up when they told me to go ahead. I plan to have a little neighborhood party at the end of season.
2022 is season 7
2016: 20 taps on buckets, 4 gallons on a borrowed 2x3.
2017: 32 taps on buckets, 8 gallons of syrup, on a "loaner" Lapierre 19x48.
2018: 80 taps. First time tubing. New 10x12 sugar shack, Lapierre 2x5. Made 17 gallons
2019: 100 taps. 22 gallons. Added a small RO 50 gph.
2020: 145 taps, 30 gallons, sold half. Murphy cup is a great addition.
2021: tapped Feb 23, 150 taps, 35 gallons.
2022: 200 taps. I lost 50, added 100. Having fun but short season?