In 2021, the research project “Non-invasive sap flow measurement and mechanisms for reliable tree syrup yield predictions”, was awarded three years of funding by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's (MBIE) Endeavour Fund, which has a focus on both research excellence and impact for New Zealand. The research contract started in October 2021 and runs for three years.
But this journey began seven years earlier, with a series of student projects undertaking preliminary studies.
This opportunity first hit the media’s attention in 2018, with Stuff running the article: NZ maple syrup industry 'possible and promising'.
Another article and video was run by Newshub in 2020: New Zealand could have commercially successful maple syrup industry - researchers.
In 2021, the University of Canterbury, prepared a media release to support the research funding application and this story was picked up by multiple other organisations.
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