This Week’s Warm Temperatures Generate First Sap Flows of Season
The 2010 Maple Sugaring Season began last week in the Upper Hudson region, with warmer temperatures generating sap flow in area maple trees. The season is off to a very strong start.
“This is what we wait for all year. The sap was running hard last week, kicking off a new maple season,” said David Campbell, a Salem producer and president of the Upper Hudson Maple Producers Association.
Sugarmakers are reporting excellent quality syrup. Ideal sugar making temperatures are forecast for the next several days.
Meanwhile, sugarmakers are preparing for the fifteenth annual Maple Open House Weekend, expanded this year to two weekends, March 20-21 and March 27-28.
A ceremonial first tree tapping with State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker will be held at Dry Brook Sugarhouse in Salem at 12:30 p.m. Friday, March 19.
This year, there are more sugarhouses than ever participating in the self-guided tour.
For a complete listing of sugarhouses and a guide map, click on www.upperhudsonmaple.com.
Prime sap flow temperatures are 40 degrees or more during the day and below freezing at night. Maple season generally runs through early April.
The Upper Hudson region is among the biggest syrup producing regions in the country.
