As autumn arrives in the Northeast and parts of the western United States, early leaf drop has impacted the quality of fall foliage this year. A series of drought conditions leading to muted colors and premature leaf fall has altered this year’s display for leaf-peeping enthusiasts.
Impact of Drought on Fall Foliage
This season’s drought has hit harder than usual, with over 40% of the U.S. categorized as experiencing drought conditions in early October. This figure is more than double the historical average, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Brad Rippey, a meteorologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, noted that the Northeast and western regions have been particularly affected.
Change in Leaf Colors
Typically, as days shorten and temperatures decline, chlorophyll breaks down in the leaves, displaying vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds. However, dry summer weather has led to earlier leaf drop and duller colors this year. “I think it might be a little bit of a short and less colorful season,” Rippey stated.
Despite Drought, Leaf Peeping Thrives
Despite less vibrant colors, many leaf-peepers are still eager to enjoy the seasonal beauty. Andy Finton, a senior conservation ecologist with The Nature Conservancy, highlighted the resilience of forests in New England. He emphasized that although climate change poses challenges, autumn remains a rewarding time to appreciate the natural world.
Tourism and Leaf Peeping
- Barbara Beckwith, general manager of the Mills Falls Resort Collection in Meredith, New Hampshire, reported strong business performance.
- Weekend bookings through mid-October were solid, compensating for a decline in Canadian visitors with an increase in domestic travelers.
Chris Proulx, executive director of the Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce, observed that while Canadian tourism has dropped by 80% this summer, other international visitors have increased. He noted that people make plans in advance to visit during this prime season.
Conditions in the Rocky Mountains
In Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, leaf peeping drew significant crowds, leading to temporary closures of highway onramps to manage traffic. Despite the stunning displays of yellow aspen trees, areas of the central state showed signs of drought stress.
Indicators of Drought Stress
Dan West, an entomologist with the Colorado State Forest Service, reported seeing dried leaf edges and muted colors early in the season. The drought has caused trees to shut down their color processes prematurely.
In Denver, arborist Michael Sundberg noted that the autumn experience feels earlier than usual and displays less color intensity than in prior years. He remarked, “It’s weird to have color peaking this early in the mountains and then for Denver to be peaking at the same time.”
This fall season has posed unique challenges and opportunities for nature enthusiasts across regions. It may be duller in color, yet the spirit of leaf-peeping remains vibrant, as visitors continue to seek the beauty of nature’s display.
