The Maine Department of Conservation’s second 2005 fall foliage report reveals little color change around the state, but cooler temperatures expected to arrive with the first day of fall could mean a lot less green on the trees very soon.
Foliage has begun to turn in the northern reaches of the tracking zones covering Aroostook, Piscataquis, Franklin and Somerset counties, but statewide, forest and park rangers are reporting very low leaf color, or less than 10 percent toward peak. When the transformation speeds up, there will be plenty of color to see as all tracking zones are reporting leaf drop of 10 percent or less.
Right on cue with the start of fall last Thursday, temperatures throughout the state started dropping into the low 60s to mid 50s during the day and to the mid 30s in some locations during the evening. Cooler overnight temperatures combined with shortened days slows the production of chlorophyll and diminishes the green pigment in leaves making way for shades of yellow, orange and red.
Updated reports and information can also be obtained by calling the Maine foliage hotline at 1-888-MAINE-45. Learn more about Maine’s fall touring routes and outdoor activities at www.visitmaine.com.
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