We are still in the early stages of foliage season. In northeastern Vermont, above St. Johnsbury, the color is starting to emerge, particularly on Sheffield Heights and Burke Mountain. According to Nancy Patch, a state forester for Franklin and Grand Isle, the color is just starting, particularly with the swamp maples. She estimates approximately 20% color. Ray Toolan, a forester for Lamoille and Orleans Counties, says there is good color around Smuggler's Notch and amongst the swamp maples in Morriston area. He thinks that the color could come on quick. For a weekend drive, Mr. Toolan suggests going through Newport, Barton and Westmore in the Northeast Kingdom.
Swamp maples near Island Pond, Septemer 20th, 2013
See the video herehttp://www.video-vermont.com/video/?p=921
In central and southern Vermont it is still mostly green unless you go up into the mountains or find some swamp maples. A maple tree in front of the Equinox Hotel in Manchester has already turned, as it does every year, ahead of everyone else :} Otherwise, wait for the color. It should be there in about 10 days or so.
In southern Vermont, hints of the foliage color to come can be seen around Pawlett. The Red Maples are definitely coming on, says the local forester
According to Brian Stone, Vermont’s Chief of Forest Management, "Vermont has all the conditions required to consistently produce excellent fall foliage. With a diverse combination of tree species, generally high quality soils and topography, which allows good moisture retention, Vermont can regularly count on beautiful foliage. Tree health is also crucial. Leaf cover and tree color in Vermont’s forests have all been very good this year and pest evidence is minimal."