PORTLAND, Maine — Mid-September is almost here, bringing with it vibrant fall colors emerging on trees.
The first Maine Foliage Report of the 2024 season kicked off Wednesday from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF).
Fall foliage in Maine is tracked and reported each year by DACF fall foliage spokesperson Gale Ross.
"Since 1959, when Commissioner of Forestry Austin Wilkins initiated the first weekly foliage reports, Maine has captivated visitors and locals with its outstanding autumn beauty," the DACF said in the foliage report. "Now 65 years strong, this tradition continues to draw leaf peepers from near and far, enhancing their experience with detailed, timely updates."
Ross hinted that the summer season may have been the perfect combination of weather to ensure a successful, bright foliage season.
"This summer was one for the record books!" Ross said in the report. "We had an abundance of daily sunshine with just the right amount of rainfall has set the stage for a breathtaking foliage season. However, I'd like to remind fall foliage enthusiasts that the color change and timing depends on the weather going forward. The cooler nighttime temperatures and shorter days enhance the progression of color."
DACF Forest Pathologist Aaron Bergdahl estimates a successful foliage season ahead.
"The growing season of 2024 has been excellent for trees, supporting tree health and resilience that should lead to brilliant fall colors throughout Maine," Bergdahl said in the report.
Each year, northern Maine, which consists of foliage zones six and seven, begins seeing peak foliage conditions by the last week of September into the first week of October.
The rest of Maine typically sees color progression beginning north to south in mid-October. Coastal Maine usually sees peak conditions by mid-to-late October.
"The colors are calling, come experience the magic of Maine this autumn," the report stated.
To see weekly Foliage Reports, visit the state's official foliage website here. You can share your own fall foliage photos with the DACF here to be considered for the "Photo of the Week" on the Maine Foliage website or social media pages.
Foliage Zones
Zone 7: Northeastern Maine, including Fort Kent, Caribou, and Presque Isle
Zone 6: Northwestern Maine
Zone 5: Western mid-Maine, including Greenville, Rangeley, Bethel
Zone 4: Eastern mid-Maine, including Houlton, Millinocket, and Calais
Zone 3: Central and southwestern Maine, including Bangor, Augusta, and Fryeburg
Zone 2: Downeast Maine, including Machias, Bar Harbor, and Penobscot Bay
Zone 1: Midcoast and south coastal Maine, including Camden, Portland, Kennebunkport, and Kittery
