Weather’s connection to maple syrup production
While it’s the first day of spring, we’re in the middle of a more delicious season — maple syrup season.
Production often begins in March and continues for about four to six weeks. But when and how much sap flows is often dependent on the weather.
A freeze-thaw cycle is needed for good sap production, with ideal temperatures between -4 and -6 C at night and 4 and 6 C during the day.
The temperature rise creates a positive pressure within the wood to create a sap flow.
It’s no surprise that because of its close connection to weather, scientists continue to assess how climate change could affect sap production in the years to come.
In the short and long term, stress on maple trees due to extreme weather is the biggest concern, including damaging winds, drought, and flooding. There are also factors such as invasive species to consider.
Temperatures are a more challenging factor given a season is always unpredictable due to fluctuating temperatures. In the longer term, we know average temperatures are rising and could affect where and when production happens.
Finding the sweet spot: Shifting optimal climate for maple syrup production in North America, published in Sciencedirect in 2019, notes by 2100, the season could begin one month earlier in parts of North America than it did between 1950 and 2016.
While we’re often at the mercy of the weather, producers are adapting and utilizing new and improved technologies and strategies to get the most out of the maple sugaring season — including tapping in earlier in winter and using new pumping methods.
Like other industries, maple syrup producers are also navigating and adapting to our changing climate.
If possible, be sure to support a local producer this season.