Impacts of climate change on maple syrup production and mitigation measures

The maple syrup industry represents an important economic activity in Quebec. Sap production and annual syrup yield highly rely on climatic conditions, especially temperature, and harvesting methods. Due to climate change and warming, the sugaring season is expected to occur and stop earlier in spring. Consequently, maple syrup production could decline significantly, raising concerns among maple producers. Owing to the lack of experimental studies, active research on sap yield production at high temporal resolutions and in relation to environmental conditions, as well as comparing different harvesting methods, is crucial for the maple industry to adapt to the foreseen environmental challenges. This project will compare maple sap yields between two harvesting systems (gravity and vacuum systems), and examine how sap yields vary across hourly, daily, and yearly scales, as well as in relation to several key environmental drivers. Furthermore, vacuum pressure levels in the vacuum system will also be assessed. The project outcomes will be helpful to improve the capacity to forecast, understand and model sap exudation under different climate scenarios, which is essential for forestry and maple industry management. Finally, highlight the importance of the international collaboration this project represents, as it is crucial to ensure knowledge transfer among institutions.

Faculty Supervisor:

Sergio Rossi

Student:

Partner:

Universitat de Barcelona

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Natural Resources; Forestry; Environmental Science and Technology

University:

Université du Québec à Chicoutimi

Program: