Remote Sap-Harvest Monitoring System

With a Remote Sap-Harvest Monitoring System, via smartphone or other digital device, the maple syrup maker (1) is kept informed, at pre-set times, of conditions at the harvest site (e.g., temperature, sap flow, pump status, tank level); (2) is alerted instantly of any problems (e.g., loss of vacuum, pump failure, tank full); (3) can initiate actions (e.g., turn pump on/off, engage temp control). Although monitoring systems differ somewhat, their component parts are similar-the basic ones being appropriately-placed sensors (lines or antennas) that feed data into a central hub/controller, which transmits that data to (and receives commands from) the user electronically.

Cost: Initial-$1,000-$2,000; subsequent annual-$50/season subscription

Impairment Category: Lower extremity, Visual