State Foliage Report for October 18th, 2007

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Southern and Western Counties Continue To Brighten

MONTPELIER, Vt. –With the Aspens brightening to lemon yellow along the ridges of central Vermont and vibrant foliage in the valleys of southern Vermont and along Lake Champlain, this year’s season still offers much to enjoy.

According to state foresters, recent rainfall and frost has brightened colors across Vermont, including some northern sections of the state. While leaves are falling in the Northeast Kingdom, Orleans County forester George Buzzell says there are still plenty of leaves left on the trees. Meanwhile, state forester Raymond Toolan says western sections of Franklin County near Lake Champlain are showing nice color in the lower areas and swamps.

Around 2,000 snow geese can be observed at the Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area on Route 17 near West Addison. As with the leaf season, the migration is winding down, but the annual spectacle of the distinctive geese remains impressive. Serious birders know that other  northern species of interest can be observed in this area during the migration.

Best Bets: While colors in most areas of central and northern Vermont are past peak, there are still some spectacular opportunities for foliage viewing. Heading north from Roxbury to Northfield, Routes 12 and 12A are recommended, as well as Route 12 in the Elmore area. You will also see bright colors along Route 15 in Jericho and Underhill, especially to the east.

Color has brightened on Interstate 89 between Berlin and Moretown, enhancing what is already a spectacular view. You will also find the yellows of the Aspens and the brassy colors of the Beech along the ridges in central Vermont.  The hills along our major rivers that have oak are also showing umber and maroon tones. The roads around Middlesex along the Winooski River are great places to see these colorful tones, as well as the Mad River Valley on Route 100.

In southern Vermont, Route 7 between Bennington and Brandon is showing bright color, and the Taconic Mountains in western Bennington County will be nearing peak conditions this week.  Other recommended foliage routes include Route 30 between Dorset and Poultney and Route 4 between Woodstock and Quechee. On the east side of the state, the lower elevation valleys along the Connecticut River and its tributaries remain colorful.  Suggested are Routes 5, 30, 103, and 44 as well as any town roads from Brattleboro north to Springfield.