I tapped 9 trees Saturday afternoon and all are flowing but only getting 1/2-3/4 gallons per tap in 36 hours versus my good flow rate of 2.5 gallons during peak flow . I did check the buckets about 3 hours ago and saw the flow may have increased slightly but wont know until tonight. This is about 8 miles east of Grand Rapids near Ada and these 9 trees are low elevation so usually slower to flow than my trees on hills with sunlight. Going to hold off tapping more unless the flow suddenly increases which i would then probably add 11 more but wont add any more than that until normal season for my remaining 40-60 taps just to be safe. Never know the rest of the winter could turn out being excellent just feels too early.
2017 First year late start 18 taps. Produced 2 gallons syrup. Hooked for life.
2018 2nd Year early start 26 taps In Jan increased to 86 taps March. Upgraded outdoor boiler concrete block & 2 20"x30"x5" Stainless pans. Swimming in sap this March! 100% disconnected all taps 3-27-18. Syrup produced 15 gallons!
2019 Season late to start only a week before spring break. Season total syrup 1.5 gallons. Enjoyed every drop.
2023 2/10/23 8 taps producing 1-1.5gal/24hrs.