The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry are predicting the drought that has gripped Maine for the past few months will not affect the 2022 fall foliage season.
"While some may have perceived fall coloration to be developing a bit earlier than usual in some areas and in some tree species due to the late summer dry period, peak color should develop normally from north to south," Aaron Bergdahl, Maine Forest Service Forest Pathologist, said in the department’s first foliage report, issued today.
A lack of rain throughout the summer has led to unusually dry conditions throughout southern Maine, leading in some cases to dry private wells and threatened crops.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, most of the southern half of the state is still classified as “abnormally dry,” with some areas of the midcoast classified as under “moderate drought” or “severe drought” conditions.
Right now, according to the foliage report, there has been little color change statewide. That may be changing in the next couple of weeks.
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry predicted the following times and locations will be good for taking in the autumn splendor:
Sept. 24-Oct. 6: The department suggested viewing leaves around the northern third of the state, including at Aroostook State Park, along Route 11, or at Eagle Lake Public Land, Mount Kineo and Rockwood.
Oct. 6-13: The department recommended the following viewing in Western Maine, including Grafton Notch State Park, Route 17 near Richardson Lake, Bigelow Preserve, Route 27/16 in Carrabassett Valley, Cathedral Pines Rest Area in Eustis, Rangeley, the lookout from Eustis Ridge, Mt. Blue State Park in Weld, Tumbledown Mountain Range, Greenville, Moosehead, Jackman, Lily Bay State Park, Rockwood, Sebec Lake and Dover-Foxcroft.
Oct. 14-20: The department suggested this may be the best time and location for viewing in central and eastern Maine, and recommended viewing in Fryeburg, Skowhegan, Farmington, Rumford, north of Portland and the greater Augusta area.
Oct. 21-27: Look for foliage along the state’s entire coastline, including south of Portland, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Wells and York. Leaf-peeping may also be good in the Sebago Lake region, Bridgton, Limerick and Waterboro.
The foliage report recommends several events related to the fall colors. Among them are:
Bethel Harvestfest happens Saturday on the town common, a well-known event in the lakes and mountains region.
Apple orchards usually begin offering pick-your-own apples in mid-September. This link describes what is available.