Approximately 12% of Quebec maple syrup is certified organic, in accordance with the Act respecting reserved designations and added-value claims (R.S.Q. c. A- 20.02). This legislation aims to structure the use of designations granted to agricultural and food products by certifying (through specifications) their production method, their production region and their specific qualities. Organic farming standards regulate sugar bush management, plant diversity, fertilization, pest control, tapping, and collection and the processing of maple water. Maple farmers abide by these standards (contained in the specifications), at all stages of maple syrup fabrication, from maintenance and farm layout to collection, storage and processing of maple water, cleaning equipment, storing the finished product and processing maple-derived products.