• Tap time varies by location. Tap trees based on observations of when test holes begin running at a substantial rate (>1 drop per second).

• Only healthy trees sized 8 inches dbh (diameter at breast height) or larger. A healthy tree shows no fire damage, no dead tops, and no visual evidence of excessive fungi.

• Do not tap trees that have had pesticides or chemicals sprayed on or around.

• Only one tap/spout per tree per year. Space subsequent year’s spouts around the circumference of the tree in a spiral pattern 24 to 48 inches high.

• Sterilize the tap before use.

• Use new plastic or nylon spouts commercially available or commercial stainless spouts if the spouts are to be reused.

• Remove spouts immediately following the conclusion of sap collection for the season. Do not plug the hole.

• Drilled holes may be only 1.5 to 1.75 inches deep and should angle slightly upward (approximately 10 degrees) using a 5/16 inch tapping bit.

• Spouts should be tapped gently into place to avoid splitting the wood.

• Motorized transportation (ATVs, snowmachines) to the harvest area may be used if allowed and it does not compromise ground cover or damage trails.

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