CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Foresters at the West Virginia Division of Forestry report that the month of October is starting out as a colorful one. Cooler temperatures throughout the state and first frosts in some areas are prompting leaves to change colors quickly, especially at higher elevations.
Leaves in the upper elevations of Preston and Tucker counties are reported to be at 75 percent peak. Recommended drives in these counties include U.S. Route 50 and State Route 92 in Preston County and State Route 72 in Tucker County.
Foresters predict that the Dolly Sods area of Grant County and the North Mountain and Spruce Mountain areas of Pendleton County will be near peak within the next week. Currently, the Dolly Sods area is estimated to be at 30 percent peak, and the North Mountain and Spruce Mountain areas are reported to be 50 percent peak.
Regional Forester Tom Cover also predicts that viewing will be best in counties such as Pocahontas, Randolph and Upshur within the next week to 10 days. “Most maples have changed, especially in the higher elevations, along with some birches and beech. Yellow poplar also is beginning to change, but oaks are remaining green.” He expects counties in the southern portion of his region, including Greenbrier, Fayette and Raleigh counties, will show their best color within the next 14 days.
Foliage within the Metro Valley and south of it is always the last to change. Currently, leaves in those areas range from 5 percent to 15 percent peak. Although foliage there is not yet as colorful as it is in other parts of the state, Forestry personnel encourage people to stop by Pumpkin Park in Milton for the West Virginia Pumpkin Festival. The Division of Forestry will have a display there, and Smokey Bear will take time out from his fire prevention duties to wave hello to kids both young and old.
For more information about fall foliage, visit the Division of Forestry’s Web site at www.wvforestry.com.
(304) 558-2003 ext. 342