Tapping Cemetery Maples

[Bugsmudbooksandsticks]

I have been making syrup for the last 9 years as a part of my elementary school math and science program..I teach in the midcoast. I want to branch out and there is a cemetery that borders our property that has a handful of nice looking Maples.
I am sure the town will approve I am just wondering about the quality of soil and thus the trees.
Does anyone have any insight, is this a safe and worthwhile adventure or could there be soil contamination?

Thanks for your time,

[johnallin]

Unless they're using pine coffins, I would think you'd have no issues...just don't go in after dark and run like heck if a tree says "ouch" when you tap it.

[maple flats]

I certainly would never tap trees in a cemetary. No, I'm not superstitious, But rather because of the embalming fluids used. Not worth the risk!

[johnallin]

I certainly would never tap trees in a cemetary. No, I'm not superstitious, But rather because of the embalming fluids used. Not worth the risk!

Might make your syrup last longer though. <grin>
Just trying to lighten everything up a bit...

[Brian]

The sap might test 20%, no Ro needed.

[amasonry]

is the cemetery old or still in use? some of the cemeteries around here can be almost 200 years old.

[TapTapTap]

If the Cemetery Commission was on their game then I would expect them to reject your request for the reasons stated in these responses and others, such as whether a citizen/neighbor should be allowed to make a commercial or personal use of a Town asset. From their perspective it would be easier and better justified to just say no.

[Ed A]

That's thinking "outside the box". You could bottle the syrup under the label "Ancestor's Best".

[Super Sapper]

Since people are buried 6 feet down and maple roots go down 12 to 18 inches there should be no chance of a tree picking up any contaminants unless there is a very high water table.

[buckeye gold]

I'll join in the chorus....I don't think I would have any concern of contaminates, but I would fear some people may think it's disrespectful of their ancestors and families to work in a cemetery. I'd pass unless it was my only choice.