Minnesota DNR kicks off the Fall Color Watch season

As we move deeper into September and our evenings become cooler, our beautiful landscape will quickly pop with yellow, orange and red colors. According to the Department of Natural Resources, fall colors in Minnesota typically peak in mid-to-late-September through mid-October with peak fall colors lasting for about two weeks.

“Brilliant fall color occurs when early fall days are sunny, nights are chilly and there is adequate rainfall throughout the growing season,” Brian Schwingle, a DNR forest health specialist said in a release.

So far this year, Duluth is nearly half an inch above normal for precipitation, so this is better for more vibrant colors. On Friday, September 6, the Minnesota DNR released their fall color expectations.

The DNR says our wet conditions have been better for trees overall. However, the abundance of moisture has also caused fungal leaf diseases on species including aspen and oak. They say the diseases are not harmful to the tree, but it could “reduce the overall brilliance of the landscape due to early leaf shedding or dead spots and blotches on leaves.”

State park staff share reports from their location to the DNR every Wednesday. The WDIO Storm Track Weather team combines information provided by the DNR and Travel Wisconsin to update the data we use for the Fall Color Watch.

The DNR provides some tips for planning your Fall Color Watch adventure:

• Sign up for the DNR newsletter. To subscribe, visit the Fall Color Finder.
• Get information in advance. Check for closures on state forest roads.
• Know the weather forecast. Bring appropriate clothing and footwear. Make sure you have the WDIO mobile app downloaded on your phone to stay up on changes in the conditions.
• Plan for crowds, especially on weekends. Buy a state park vehicle permit online. Vehicle permits cost $35 for a full year, or $7 for one day.
• State forests, scientific and natural areas and wildlife management areas do not require permits, and offer fall color viewing opportunities.
• Consider staying overnight. Fall is a great time to camp, with cool but comfortable nights and fewer bugs.
• Many state parks offer programs where visitors can learn about the area. Most programs are free. A full listing of events is on the state parks calendar.
• Be aware of hunting seasons and take safety precautions.
• Bring a camera and share photos.