The steady flow of sap in March, triggered by the day/night rhythm of temperatures moving above and below freezing, is a sure sign of Spring in the north country. The apparatus used for sap collection include the taps (inserted into the trees), the tubing (through which the sap flows – by gravity), and the collection barrel (partially visible behind the trees). The collected sap is then carted off to an evaporator, where it boils down to – voila! – maple syrup.