New Brunswick faced groundwater depletion last year due to drought conditions, raising concerns among maple harvesters about the impact on the upcoming season’s yield. The combination of reduced rainfall and higher temperatures in 2025 led to wells and streams drying up.
David Briggs, the owner of Briggs Maples in Hillsborough, explained that diminished groundwater and sunlight levels result in decreased photosynthesis in maple trees, leading to lower sap production. However, he noted that the heat can enhance sugar production in the trees.
While the increased sunlight may lead to sweeter sap this year, the lower rainfall might result in reduced overall production, according to Briggs. He emphasized the complexity of factors influencing sap production, making it challenging to predict outcomes accurately at this point.
Briggs highlighted the difficulty in estimating sap production by visually inspecting trees, expressing hope for future scientific advancements in this area. He mentioned that many people in his region had to deepen their wells or faced dry wells in 2025, raising concerns about similar impacts on his maple farm’s groundwater levels.
Briggs pointed out that sap flow in trees relies on the freeze-thaw cycle and temperature fluctuations, which have become less consistent due to climate change. He observed milder winters and winter warm spells, affecting sap flow and ultimately the yield.
The changing seasons have also altered the timing of tapping maple trees, with harvesting now starting in mid- to early February instead of the traditional March timeframe, as sap begins flowing earlier with warmer temperatures. Jane Scott, co-owner of Dumfries Maples near Nackawic, noted a significant decrease in water levels in streams on her farm, prompting concerns about the potential impact on the upcoming maple season.
Scott, who has been involved in maple harvesting for over 25 years, acknowledged the seasonal shifts and expressed cautious optimism about the impact of the drought on their crop, with final assessment awaiting the conclusion of the season.
