The early tapping of our trees on February 2nd and 3rd proved fortuitous as a warm air mass jump started the sap flow on February 19th! We have been keeping records at Somerskogen since 1994, the year we acquired our sugarbush and the previous early start was February 24, 2002. By comparison, the latest start was March 22, 2005. Quite a variation!
Our preparations for the first boil are nearly complete. The vacuum system is operational and able to deliver 22" of negative pressure throughout the sugarbush. Careful attention to leaks at individual taps or connections will optimize the achieved vacuum. A well-designed vacuum system can increase sap production by 50-100% over gravity flow.
The weather models look somewhat favorable over the next few days for continued sap flow before a cold front arrives next weekend.
Check our website often to keep up to date on the activity in the sugarbush.