This is by far the most honest and helpful thread I've come across on these forums. Not that the other threads aren't honest! Quite the opposite, I've never come across another industry that is so helpful and welcoming. But I can't help but notice that so much of the forums, equipment, and resources available to us are only focused on making MORE. Even down to our forum signatures (I'm as guilty as anyone), how many have you come across that show fewer taps every year? There's this subtle pressure everywhere you look that says expanding is the only option. I'm only in my third year of this and I love it, but with three young kids I really have to balance my resources carefully and avoid overextending myself. With 30 buckets I'll probably end up with 5-7 gals this year, and as I stare at the maples a little further down the road I find myself asking whether another 2-3 gals would really make a difference in the quality of the experience. Lately I've been trying to think about it like I approached teaching the kids how to ski: always go out on a high note and leave them wanting more. It's helped me have some perspective and maintain reasonable expectations. I'm really happy with the amount of time I spend on this right now, and my goal is to avoid adding anything that will increase that obligation and take away from the fun.
2020 - 7 Late Taps, Open Fire, 1 qt
2021 - 25 Taps, Barrel Evap, Bucket RO...Fever Setting In! Made 2.5 gal
2022 - 30 Taps, 5 gal
2023 - 30 Taps, Blower Fan, Insulated Evap
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Anyway the act of watching water boil goes way back to the cave man days. Staying up late, playing with fire, and tasting very sweet syrup seem to keep drawing folks to the production of pure maple syrup and beyond. Then the Guy gene kicks in, and what if we did just a little more? Look more maples in bills yard next door........ ! And away we go!