What:
The Northeast CSC supported the development of ACERnet, an international network of scientists and managers dedicated to studying the maple tree’s ecology and management, with a focus on the relationship between sap quality and climate. ACERnet has six study sites covering the range of sugar maples, from Virginia to Quebec.
Findings:
ACERnet scientists identified how changes in weather conditions impact sugar maple trees and sap production. These impacts include fewer trees, reduced tree health and growth, shortened tapping seasons, and decreased sap quality and quantity. These changes could lead to lower rates of syrup production in the U.S., with some areas in the southern half of sugar maple’s range becoming unsuitable for production. Maple syrup producers are already reporting earlier and more variable tapping seasons.
However, the industry is adapting to these changes. Improved sap collection technology has increased the efficiency of production and has made lower sugar content sap more profitable. These improvements have so far offset most of the negative impacts of variable seasons. Alleviating other environmental stressors, such as acid rain and insect pests, can prolong tree health and improve sap quality. The industry can also improve resilience by diversifying the species of trees tapped, which increases the number of available trees and lengthens the tapping season. Other maples, birches, and even walnuts can be tapped for sweet sap.
Significance:
Maple trees provide almost year-round economic activity for maple-dense states, through maple sap products and tourism of fall foliage. Maple syrup is also a traditional food source for a number of tribes in the region, such as the Menominee Tribe. The information obtained from ACERnet will help the maple industry adapt to and continue to thrive under future conditions. ACERnet products can help improve the resilience of the industry by providing maple producers with resources, such as projections of future tapping conditions, to make decisions on how to best maintain or grow syrup production in the face of changing climate conditions.
Who:
Project Lead: Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center
Partners: University of Massachusetts Amherst | University of Virginia | Dartmouth College | Montana State University
Stakeholders: State Maple Syrup Associations | North American Maple Syrup Council | International Maple Syrup Institute | Land Managers
Learn More:
Learn more about this project here
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