Saddle up for autumn trail rides! Lace up those walking shoes. Pump up those bike tires. Badger State forestry experts predict vibrant fall colors in the coming weeks.
Each year, Wisconsin’s forests are known for offering some of the most showy fall colors in the entire nation. Horseback riders, hikers and other outdoor sports enthusiasts look forward to the autumn season for scenic jaunts in Wisconsin.
Why is this year’s fall foliage forecasted to be fabulously colorful?
Several weather factors have contributed to the upcoming vibrant displays, initiated by climatically induced chemical reactions in trees.
“The wet spring and excellent growing conditions earlier this year meant good foliage growth,” explained Kirsten Held, Forestry Outreach Specialist for the Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry. “This bountiful leaf cover bodes well for the 2011 fall color season that is beginning in the Northwoods now.
“Fall days filled with bright sunshine followed by cool nights create the most vibrant red fall color displays. These weather conditions cause lots of sugars to be produced by the trees and trapped in the leaves, leading to the production of anthocyanins and giving leaves of some species the brilliant shades of red, purple and crimson,” Held added.
Mild Indian summer days and diminished winds may extend Wisconsin’s fine fall foliage displays.
Fall color tours add plenty to the Badger State economy through tourism and outdoor sports participation. The Wisconsin Department of Tourism offers a Fall Color Report, which is available online.
Environment-friendly Wisconsinites aim to preserve Badger State forests.
A new Forest Action Plan, proposed by a variety of Wisconsin natural resource organizations, is taking a pro-active approach at managing the state’s 16 million acres of forested lands.
“The Forest Action Plan proposes Wisconsin-specific strategies to ensure that future generations will also have healthy forests to enjoy,” pointed out Rebecca Gass, a DNR forest planner.
“Forest-based recreation – including viewing the fall beauty - is estimated to contribute $5.5 billion [this year] to the Wisconsin economy through travel-related and equipment expenditures. With the forestry community working together, Wisconsin will continue to have a rich and diverse forest resource to provide a show-stopping colorama every autumn,” Gass said.
This year, incidentally, is known as the United Nations’ International Year of Forests.
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