Maple Conversations with Tim Rademacher

What happens in a sugarbush when the sap isn’t running?

This webinar explores the busy summer life of a sugarbush, from tree to ecosystem. We’ll dive into how maples cycle and store carbon, form new wood, and track the seasons through phenology. The talk will also highlight wildlife use of the sugarbush and their interactions with taps, tubing, and other sugaring infrastructure and how biodiversity can coexist with maple sugaring. Together, these perspectives reveal the sugarbush as a dynamic, living system long after the sugaring season ends. Overall, we will explore how events and processes during the summer shape the resilience and sustainability of maple sugaring.

Featured Presenter: Tim Rademacher

Tim studied Geography and Plant Science at the University of Cambridge before completing a PhD on the global carbon cycle, examining how long carbon persists in terrestrial ecosystems. This research led to his interest in wood formation and carbon cycling within trees, which he further explored through postdoctoral work at Harvard Forest and Northern Arizona University. There, he conducted studies on tree carbon cycling. After moving to Canada, Tim gained expertise in maple sugaring during a postdoc at the University of Quebec in Outaouais and applied work at Centre ACER. Now, as Director of the Proctor Maple Research Center, he leads research on maple sugaring, focusing on forest and tree health, as well as sap collection and transformation.

About the Webinar Series

The Maple Conversations Webinar Series is a seasonal education program designed to keep sugar makers connected, informed, and inspired during the off-season. Through a curated lineup of industry experts, researchers, and experienced producers, each session offers practical insights on timely topics ranging from production techniques and forest management to business strategy, marketing, and emerging industry trends.

These webinars provide direct access to trusted voices in the maple community, creating opportunities to learn, ask questions, and stay engaged beyond the sugaring season. Whether you’re looking to refine your operation, explore new ideas, or stay current with industry developments, the Maple Conversations Webinar Series delivers valuable knowledge when you have the time to focus on it most.