September 17, 2003

The foliage in northern New England is gradually starting its transformation from green to the yellows, oranges and reds sought after by leaf-peepers from around the world. Much of northern Maine is in the low color range (11 to 30 percent), with extreme northern Maine reporting moderate color (31 to 60 percent). Elsewhere in the Northeast, the higher elevations in New Hampshire, Vermont, New York and Pennsylvania are experiencing low color, with very low color in all other locations. The hope of a magnificent foliage season continues, with many of The Foliage Network's spotters reporting that the early color is bright and vibrant!

Many are wondering how Hurricane Isabel will affect this year's foliage season. While the answer to that question is unknown at this time, The Foliage Network believes that the impact will be relatively minor. First and foremost, it is early in the foliage season, with many of the leaves remaining green and able to withstand a fair amount of wind. Had this hurricane approached a month from now, when the leaves are more apt to fall, the impact could have been severe. When Hurricane Isabel finally reaches land, it will weaken rapidly, and continue to weaken as it migrates farther inland. By the time it reaches the Northeast, damaging winds should be at a minimum, welcome news for the trees. The biggest impact to be felt in the Northeast from the remnants of Isabel will be the soaking rains. Much of the Northeast received an abundance of rain during the Spring and Summer and this rain will not be welcomed by some.

If you have not yet made reservations for your leaf-peeping trip(s), now is the time! Check out our Places to Stay and Foliage Spotters sections to find great accommodations!

This information provided by Marek D. Rzonca, The Foliage Network. The next report will be released on Saturday, September 20, 2003.

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