March and a bit of warm daytime weather means it’s maple syrup season in the Upper Midwest.
Syrup producers in the region have been reporting mixed early results so far from their tapped trees — some reporting the start of a slow run, several reporting a great run and others reporting a generally steady run.
Conditions seem favorable for a nice overall run this season, with daytime warmth and sunshine predicted during coming days. That daytime warmth and sunshine, combined with predicted freezing temperatures at night, historically result in good runs. Some old-timers even mention that plenty of moisture held in the soil, along with a good amount of snow still in the woods, also can be helpful.
While that snow and moisture can be helpful, however, it also adds to the challenges of tapping and collecting the trees’ sap.
Time will tell about the season’s successes and yields. One thing is certain, though: I’ll be among the many looking forward to yet another season of sweetness on our table, courtesy of those who work the long late-winter and early-spring hours to bring us such Wisconsin goodness.
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