Maple syrup producers tapping trees earlier

ITHACA, N.Y. — Many maple syrup producers in upstate New York are tapping their trees early because of a light winter, which can be risky for harvest.

Usually, producers tap their trees in late February. But this year tapping started at the end of January.

New York State Maple Extension Specialist Stephen Childs of Cornell University says bacteria and yeast can grow, making holes dry up. The seasonal flow of sap depends on a series of freezing nights followed by warmer days to facilitate the movement of sap. Childs says some producers have already made half their crop.

Childs said it's impossible to tell whether the harvest will be of good quality until harvest is completed.