Maple sugaring is the process of collecting sap from sugar maple trees and turning it into maple syrup. In early spring, when temperatures rise above freezing during the day and drop below freezing at night, the sap begins to flow. Farmers drill small holes into the trees and attach buckets or tubing to collect the sap. Once collected, the sap is boiled down to remove excess water, concentrating its natural sugars. It takes about 40 gallons of sap to produce one gallon of syrup. The final product can be enjoyed as a sweet topping for pancakes, waffles, and other dishes.