Sap Collection

To access and collect maple tree sap, syrup producers drill small holes into trees. Sap slowly drips out of these holes, which are called, "taps".

The power auger is the tool currently preferred for tapping maples. Many large-scale maple producers have thousands of taps (some as many as 20,000), so the use of hand-operated drills is not realistic.

Drilled tap holes should extend no more than 2.5 to 3 inches beyond the bark and into the tree.

Most maple producers use a drill bit that is 7/16 inches in diameter, and maple supplies are standardized for holes this size. Holes are drilled at an upward slant of about 10 degrees. A sharp drill bit minimizes damage to the tree and allows for the most efficient drilling. Researchers at the Uihlein Field Station are experimenting with smaller spouts. Read more about this research.