UVM Department of Plant Biology Research Professor Tim Perkins has been awarded the inaugural UVM Innovations Impact Award. Perkins is also the director of the Proctor Maple Research Center (PMRC), where his research focuses on the physiological ecology of managed and unmanaged sugar maple forests.
Perkins’ check valve maple spout has made a significant impact on the maple industry and the health of maple trees. He is a recognized expert in the maple industry, and well known for his contributions to the science as well as the economic well-being of the industry.
“Sugaring it down” to UVM, his technology has provided the greatest amount of income to the university over time, as well as cementing UVMs reputation in the maple industry. Although Perkins is retiring in 2023, his contributions to UVM will be felt for years to come, not only with the check valve but with new technologies developed at PMRC.