Informing Management Practice Through Understanding the Effects of Species and Tree Characteristics on Maple Sap Volume and Sugar Content

Maple syrup production is a traditional, non-timber forest product that yields important economic returns to landowners. A growing body of producers in Kentucky are now managing for syrup/sugar production, but the existing research and management guidelines are focused on the historical production range (northeastern United States) and tree species (sugar maple). Because of Kentucky's climatic differences and the significant contribution of other maple species (e.g., red maple) to syrup production, there is critical need to better understand the effects of species and tree characteristics on maple sap volume and sugar content in the context of Kentucky's climate and production methods. Our proposed objective is to establish a sampling network in Kentucky that will facilitate development of a model for quantifying the effect of local climate patterns, site conditions, maple species, tree size, growing space characteristics on maple sap volume production and sugar content. The project will focus on eastern Kentucky and engage with producer members of the Kentucky Maple Syrup Association to translate study results into management practices that guide sugarbush site location, tree selection, and thinning practices that increase production.