Fall colors beginning to show in Ohio

The relatively dry summer has created the opportunity for a great fall foliage season, which could peak during mid-October in northern Ohio and late October in southern parts of the state.

The drought and heat through part of July and all of August does seem to have some trees a little stressed out causing them to show hints of color in mid to late September. This will be noticed most in urban areas, where trees live a tougher life, and in lower lying areas where the trees are used to having access to more water. Otherwise, we will keep our fingers crossed that we get rain again in September and the temperatures continue cooling off in the evenings. If the weather in September cooperates, we should be on track for northern Ohio peaking in the first and second week of October, central Ohio peaking around second and third weeks, and then southern Ohio peaking through the fourth week. Sunny days with cool nights, minus an early frost, will make for a stunning fall foliage season. Consistent rainfall will also help October color to peak at its best.

Poison Ivy, Virginia Creeper, and Buckeyes are expected to start the color display at the end of September with bright reds and golds, respectively.

To help Ohioans plan seasonal outings and enjoy the fall color that will radiate through Ohio’s 100 plus tree species, ODNR will post weekly fall color updates at http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/tabid/9584/default.aspx. The reports will begin September 22 and run through the first week on November.

The ODNR web site will serve as a premier guide to Ohio’s fall color season. Its pages provide information for travelers who want to map a scenic road trip, adventurers who are refreshed and energized by the cool autumn weather, vacationers who seek places of solace to enjoy the changing seasons and even the students who need a resource for leaf collection projects.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
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My family (wife and three kids, sometimes the dog) and I have been RV campers since 2007. We own a 2000 Trail-Lite B22 Bantam hybrid, our tow vehicle is a 2006 Trailblazer LT EXT (5.3 V8 with 3.73 Rear Axle Ratio), and our setup includes the Equalizer sway controller. Looking to upgrade the camper in the near future, but until then we get out 2-3 times a month in season.