EQUIPMENT NECESSARY

Maple syrup can be produced with a minimum of equipment, but a few standard items increase the efficiency of the operation and the quality of the product:

1. A drill with a 7/16 or 5/16-inch bit for drilling tap-holes in trees.
2. A metal or plastic collection spout for each tap-hole.
3. A collection container (bucket or plastic bag) or tubing line for each tap-hole.
4. A large pan and a heat source for boiling down the sap. The size needed will depend on how much sap you intend to handle.
5. A large-scale thermometer calibrated at least 15 degrees above the boiling point of water.
6. Wool, orlon or other filters for filtering finished syrup while hot.
7. Storage facilities and containers for the finished syrup.