COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – As Ohio is beginning to experience pockets of changings leaves earlier than usual, residents can view fall foliage now at multiple local parks and trails.
Because of Ohio’s dry summer, multiple species of trees have begun to change colors early resulting in sporadic foliage changes across the state, according to David Parrott, a fall color forester with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
“Typically, central Ohio will begin to see changes in early October with colors peaking in the second or third week,” Parrott said. “This year seems to be following a little different pattern in areas that have been affected by drought.”
Trees that are not resistant to drought, such as maples, sycamores and tulip poplars, have begun to change colors early in the season. Some plants, such as buckeye trees, sumac and poison ivy, have already begun to sport vibrant red leaves, according to Parrott.
In central Ohio, Parrott suggested the Alum Creek State Park, specifically The Storybook Trail, in Lewis Center as a location where residents can view fall foliage right now. Delaware State Park is another option for central Ohioans seeking out changing leaves, according to NBC4 Meteorologist Bryan Still.
Additionally, approximately an hour and a half drive east of Columbus, the division is receiving reports of near peak fall colors at the Salt Fork State Park in Guernsey County, according to Parrott. Colorful leaves are also beginning to spread about an hour and a half southwest of Columbus at the Zaleski State Forest in Vinton County.
In areas that have received more rain, peak colors are expected to occur in mid-October in the north and move south through the end of month, according to the division. When outdoors this fall, Parrott advised park-goers to exercise caution when dealing with fire and to check with local fire departments for restrictions before burning anything.
“Despite the rain, we are entering into Ohio’s official fire season,” Parrott said. “The dry conditions from the past months created elevated fire danger that may return after this period of rains.”
Weekly fall color updates can be found on the ODNR’s website.
