The autumnal equinox will arrive at 9:31 a.m. today, and with the start of fall Pennsylvanians start to look to the trees for the approaching show of colorful foliage.
The 2020 foliage should be “vibrant,” but “muted” in drier areas of the state, according to Cecile M. Stelter, district forester at Cornplanter State Forest District in Warren.
“There are areas that have been designated as being in drought conditions in Pennsylvania, and some of those areas are in North Central (Pennsylvania) extending to the east, in some areas drier than normal conditions,” she explained. In those drier areas, “The colors may be more muted this year.”
However, she noted, “That’s not a statewide or even a region-wide declaration.”
As of Sept. 10, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection moved Potter County to drought warning status and had local counties of Cameron, Elk and McKean on drought watch.
Meanwhile, Warren, Forest and Crawford counties — where Cornplanter State Forest is located — are not on drought watch.
Stelter said people will still “see some vibrant colors” this year, but what they see will depend on where leaf-viewers are and what species of trees they see.
With so many different types of native tree species, it “gives us a really wonderful palette of colors,” said Stelter.
For instance, a red maple tree and a black gum tree will create two different shades of red in the fall, she said. That range of species that changes at different times and provides different colorations “really adds to the beauty of Pennsylvania’s fall foliage.”
According to Stelter, we’re starting to get into the fall weather, with warm — but not hot — days and cooler nights that start the process of the leaves changing. People may already notice red maples and sugar maples starting to turn, which are two species that tend to change earlier in the season.
“As far as peaks, that depends on what the species are,” she said.
She explained that in McKean County and parts of Potter County, where maples are common, people can expect peak viewing to be around Oct. 10. Meanwhile, in areas with heavier oak populations, the peak will be closer to Oct. 18-24.
Oak tree, known for a “burnt orange, rusty color,” is usually one of the last trees to turn, according to Stelter.
As far as what people should know when they are visiting Pennsylvania’s state park facilities, there is a mask requirement in place. Stelter recommends either the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) website or contacting the parks directly for more information, especially for anyone who is planning to attend a program.
While the parks and forests are all open, Stelter added that “we’re lucky” in this area because residents don’t have to travel to a designated area or park to view fall foliage. People can take a drive down back roads to look at the leaves, then stop at farmers markets or pumpkin stands along the way.
“The fall foliage drive is a wonderful way to get out and enjoy the fall season,” and it’s easy to maintain social distancing by traveling with a family unit or close social unit.
“Of course, proper planning is important, especially if you’re going outside your home area,” she noted.
Stelter explained that public facilities at places such as local and state parks and state forests have had to adapt due to COVID-19 risks, and there may be specific guidelines. Also, there are areas here that do not have conveniences such as cell phone coverage, so she suggested that people make sure to have their gas tank filled up and to pack snacks.
She encouraged all those who have felt cooped up this year to take a little road trip to Pennsylvania to see the leaves this autumn.
“In Pennsylvania, we have the green, lush foliage of Penn’s Woods,” she said. “We’re treated to nature’s paintbrush in the fall. Nature is creating its own painting with all the different colors.”
