One Vermont maple syrup maker has had 140 of his sap-collecting buckets stolen from maple trees.
Fred Hopkins says the thief or thieves struck twice, once dumping out the sap and making off with the steel buckets — even though they're not worth much. Police are investigating.
After hearing about the heists, a maple syrup-producing couple offered to lend Hopkins some steel buckets and then helped install them. The investigating police officer also chipped in.
Hopkins says the local maple syrup makers association, a maple equipment dealer and another maple syrup maker have also offered help. But he's told them he's all set.
Hopkins makes syrup as a hobby and typically gives much of it away.
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