Climate Change Shifts Peak Fall Foliage to Later Dates This Year

Climate Change Delays Peak Fall Foliage: What to Expect This Year As the Northern Hemisphere enters fall, parts of the United States are experiencing a delayed peak in foliage due to climate change. According to SmokyMountains.com's animated map, which projects fall leaf color, some areas will see their peak colors later than usual. "It's a really cool process that we get to watch, that trees are preparing for winter," said Alexandra Kosiba, extension assistant professor of forestry at the University of Vermont. "Trees shed their leaves in order to store and recycle valuable nutrients (in their trunks and branches) before winter's ice and snow can rip them off." As temperatures drop, chlorophyll, the pigment that makes leaves appear green, starts breaking down, revealing the yellows and oranges they've had all along. Leaves typically start to change color in the northern parts of the country around late September or early October. However, this year's delayed peak foliage is attributed to warmer-than-average temperatures during the summer months. "Climate change is affecting the timing of fall colors," said Kosiba. "It's not just a matter of when they turn color, but also how long they stay colorful." The delayed peak foliage has significant implications for the tourism industry, which relies heavily on fall foliage to attract visitors. According to a study by the U.S. Travel Association, leaf peepers spend an estimated $3 billion annually in the United States. To mitigate the effects of climate change on fall foliage, researchers are exploring ways to adapt tree species to changing environmental conditions. "We're looking at how we can breed trees that are more resilient to warmer temperatures and drought," said Kosiba. The current status is that some areas, such as New England, have already seen peak foliage, while others, like the Midwest, will experience it later in the season. The next development is that researchers will continue to monitor and study the effects of climate change on fall foliage, with a focus on finding ways to adapt and mitigate its impacts. In conclusion, this year's delayed peak fall foliage serves as a reminder of the far-reaching consequences of climate change. As temperatures continue to rise, it's essential for policymakers, researchers, and the general public to work together to address this pressing issue. Attribution: SmokyMountains.com: Animated map showing fall leaf color projections Alexandra Kosiba, extension assistant professor of forestry at the University of Vermont: Quotes on tree physiology and climate change impacts U.S. Travel Association: Study on economic impact of leaf peepers *Reporting by Npr.*