« 2012 New England Maple Sugar Season Survey »

Excerpted from USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service Newsletter: June 13, 2012

New England syrup production totaled 1.24 million gallons (out of 1.91 million gallons nationwide) in 2012, down from near record of 1.70 million gallons in 2011. Maine produced 360 million gallons or 0.24 gallons/tap (29% of New England and 19% of US production) and was the only state in the nation whose production was not down from 2011.

90% of New England producers reported the season too warm. March heat waves resulted in early budding of maple trees and an early end for many producers, except in Somerset County, where the season ran till mid-April. Maine average sap collection start date was Feb 28 and average closing date was March 28.