NEWFIELD, N.Y. (WENY)-- Maple season is here, but the mild winter pattern can have a negative impact on production.  Currently, many farmers have started to tap their trees, including Dan Weed - the owner of Schoolyard Sugarbush. 

''Every time temperatures are extreme- and that is 50s, 60s, and 70s, chances increase for bacteria to form, '' said Dan Weed- the owner of Schoolyard Sugarbush Maple Farms. 

Mr. Weed is also the President of the N.Y. State Maple Producers Association.  He said that the bacteria reduces the sap flow and can alter the flavor of the sap. 

''The ideal temperatures need to be down to about 25 degrees overnight and then up to about 40 degrees during the day,'' said Dan Weed. 

Freeze-thaw pattern is essential as it pulls sugar from the roots to the limbs and this helps produce leaves.

Traditionally, farmers begin to tap their trees just after Valentines, heralding the start of the maple season. However, due to rising temperatures over the decades, farmers have started tapping their trees in January. 

Mr. Weed said that preparation and adaptation can help reduce the negative impacts mild winters have on maple production. Additionally, farmers like him work with experts at Cornell University to gather climate information and to make mitigating strategies. 

''As you look around the Sugarbush, you would see a lot of stainless steel and equipment. There is a lot of technology. I believe it is very important that we stay on top of the information What we did 30 years ago, is not cost-effective today'' , said Dan Weed. 

Due to the advancement of technology, they are able to better prepare for when the freeze-thaw cycle is absent. Consequently, maple syrup is one of the booming industries in New York. However, Mr. Weed noted that the N.Y. State Maple Producers Association is trying to promote the industry, as we have the trees and the people.

Even though the production at Schoolyard Sugarbush has been above average this year, Mr. Weed said that it is not over as yet. If the weather pattern turns and we get spring-like weather next week, that could significantly reduce the consumption. 

Schoolhouse Sugarbush opened its doors over three decades ago. While it started with Dan and his father, he now co-owns it with his wife. They are located on 1539 W Danby Rd, Newfield, N.Y. .