Sap collection tour:
Page 2OIder sugar maple tapping guidelines suggested placing one tap in trees between 10 and 15 inches in diameter. Trees that were between 15 and 20 inches could have two taps, those between 20 and 25 inches could have three taps, and all trees with a diameter greater than 25 inches could have no more than four taps. The diameter of a tree is measured approximately 4.5 feet above the ground.
After years of study, it was determined that except for extremely healthy trees, these guidelines caused too much stress and lead to reduced sugar bush health and vigor.
Current recommendations suggest placing one tap in trees that are between 12 and 18 inches in diameter, two taps in trees between 18 and 25 inches, and three taps in trees greater than 25 inches. While this more conservative tapping guideline does not allow for the production of as much sap per tree per year, the sugar bush will be nonetheless be healthier and more productive over time.
