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DNR Updates Fall Foliage Report

September 22nd, 2019 by WCBC Radio

 

Fall Foliage

Welcome to the Fall Foliage and Festival Report for the last weekend of summer, Sept. 21 and 22, brought to you by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Having melted down almost daily through a typically hot and humid — and exceptionally wet — Maryland summer, you just might be looking forward to the official astronomical start of fall in the Northern Hemisphere: the autumnal, or fall, equinox (also called the September equinox). Early Monday morning — 3:50 a.m. in Annapolis — the sun will rise precisely due east and later will set precisely due west with the length of day and night almost equal. This is also the best time to view Mars as the planet will be at its brightest. Join the Westminster Astronomy Club at Cunningham Falls State Park Saturday night to see the stars

Sign up to receive weekly reports showcasing the Old Line State’s vibrant fall foliage and the best autumn festivals at dnr.maryland.gov.

 


Photo of fall foliage beginning to show

Signs of fall at Mt. Nebo Wildlife Management Area, by Melissa Nash of the Maryland Forest Service.

 

The most obvious indicator of autumn’s arrival, the changing of the foliage, is still a few weeks away for most of the state; however, in western Maryland, pockets are starting to show splotches of brilliant color. “More trees are starting to join in as the lush green of summer begins to fade,” reports Forester Melissa Nash. “Maples are turning yellow to red and birch and basswood are beginning to yellow. It’s a slow start, but will be on the increase as we officially welcome fall next week!”

Dan Hedderick, a project forester based in Flintstone, is seeing a 30% color change all along Interstate 68, with various shades of yellow offering just a preview of the autumn glory to come. 

Traditionally it is the region where leaf color changes first, with Garrett County’s foliage beginning to turn around the end of September and peaking toward the middle of October.

While seasons do not always begin and end on time, and the most dramatic fall foliage changes are still a few weeks away, this is a perfect weekend to experience exciting fall festivals and outdoor events.

While in Western Maryland, check out The Great Frederick Fair, now through Sunday. Visit the carnival midway, take in nightly grandstand entertainment and see award-winning agricultural exhibits.

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