Southern Quebec maple syrup producers fear a short season
Warmer than average temperatures could impact the length of time sap flows from trees
It's production time for Quebec maple syrup producers, but some in the southern part of the province worry their season will be shorter than usual because of higher-than-average temperatures.
The ideal conditions for maple syrup require below-freezing temperatures at night — and then above zero temperatures during the day.
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However, it hasn't been freezing every night, and the forecast for next week predicts even warmer temperatures.
Sap has been running from trees at Hilltop Sugarbush in Dunham, Que., but staff say it's significantly warmer than it was last year.
"It hasn't frozen hard, so we don't get as much sap as we're supposed to," said employee Kevin Ten Eyck.
Ten Eyck says they haven't had trouble producing their syrup, but next week's balmy forecast is causing some stress.
"It worries you when you see the temperature not freezing at night," he said.