“You cannot simply take, without giving back”

In Quebec, Canada, long and unforgiving winters are a fact of life, but for maple syrup producers like Stephane Larivière, they signal the approach of a vital period. The maple syrup production window is short, just four to six weeks in early spring.

As snow settles across the forest, preparations quietly begin. Nearly 8,000 trees are tapped by hand, networks of sap lines are inspected and the sugar shack, the heart of the operation, is meticulously cleaned, ready for the brief, but intense production window ahead.

This season also provides the perfect opportunity for critical forest management. Trees are inspected, trails cleared, and any that are dead, decaying, or obstructing healthy growth are selectively removed, and invasive species are cleared to give native trees the space they need to thrive.

Every step is taken to ensure the sustainability and longevity of Canada’s vast forest eco-systems. As Stephane explains, preservation is at the heart of everything he does, “Maybe the modern world is all about taking, but here in the maple forests, you cannot simply take, without giving back”.

At the center of this effort is one essential machine, the Yanmar SV100-7.

Trusted in Harsh Conditions

Quebec’s climate demands equipment that can perform in extreme conditions. Temperatures can plunge to -22°F in winter and rise sharply to over 90°F in summer.  Trails can freeze, thaw, and turn to deep mud within days. In these conditions, a mechanical breakdown isn’t just inconvenient, it can be dangerous.

That’s why Stephane relies on the Yanmar SV100-7. Modified by Equipment Marquis, his local Yanmar dealer, it’s tailored to meet the demands of forestry work in this region. Reinforced components, additional guards and adapted hydraulics ensure it can handle rough terrain and unpredictable weather.

From hauling logs to clearing trails, the SV100-7 delivers reliable power, performance and precision when it’s needed most. In an environment where downtime isn’t an option, Stephane trusts it to perform; “When I turn on the machine in the morning, I need to know it’s going to start and perform. With my Yanmar, I get that peace-of-mind.

Protecting Nature’s Enduring Gift

Preserving the forest also means minimizing damage during operations. Traditional forestry machines can leave behind churned soil and damaged ground. The SV100-7 offers a different approach, it’s compact, lightweight and nimble, suited to moving through tight spaces with a lighter touch.

Stephane works his way through the forest by laying branches beneath the tracks as he goes. This cushions the ground and further reduces the impact. Within weeks, the forest floor shows little sign of activity. Regrowth begins quickly, and the vital ecosystem that allows the maple forests to thrive stays intact.

The maple syrup they produce is more than a just product in Canada, it’s part of the national identity. For families like Stephane’s, it’s a way of life that spans generations. Stephane’s father, Claud Larivière, began tapping trees almost 50 years ago and now watches with pride as his son carries the tradition forward. “I am more than proud to see Stephane take over the business, and I hope it continues for many years.”

The next chapter is already taking shape. Stephane’s son is currently working with a major maple syrup producer in the United States, gaining valuable experience that will help him one day take the reins and continue the family legacy.

A Sweet Future

As winter gives way to spring, the thaw begins. Warmer days and cold nights draw sap from the trees, and the work that’s been months in the making finally begins. For Stephane, this isn’t just about syrup, it’s about stewardship. With care and the right tools, he’s working in partnership with the land to ensure it thrives.

The Yanmar SV100-7 is a key part of that mission. It’s not just a machine, it’s the enabler of a sustainable way of working that honors tradition, supports livelihoods, and ensures the forest continues to give back for generations to come.