GFC launches fall foliage reports

Add the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) to the groups pledging to keep leaf-lookers informed as trees across Georgia come alive with color in the transition from summer to winter.

The GFC says the recent trend of sunny days and cooler nights are setting the stage for a colorful fall foliage season in Georgia.

To help plan scenic autumn getaways, the agency will showcase the state's best viewing sites via its website - GaTrees.org, and its Facebook and Twitter sites. These weekly fall foliage updates will begin on October 4. (Georgia State Parks plans to launch its Leaf Watch service October 1. See earlier story.)

"We're seeing dogwoods, sourwoods and maples just beginning to change now in the upper elevations of north Georgia," said Ken Masten, District Manager of the Georgia Forestry Commission's Coosa District. "If present conditions continue, we're setting the stage for a good fall season."

Georgia Forestry Commission fall foliage reports consist of information about specific species and their corresponding color changes. Recommended driving routes, historic sites, weekend events, and scenic locations.

In a partnership with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, state parks with attractive leaf color are also highlighted. In addition, GFC foresters explain the effect of weekly weather events on foliage cover, and describe the seasonal percentage of leaf change, so that people can plan their trips
around "peak viewing" dates.

The Forestry Commission's Facebook page will also sponsor a weekly fall foliage photo contest for its fans. The winner will receive an annual pass to Georgia state parks.

"North Georgia is known for its beautiful vistas, good roadways and amazing diversity of tree species," said Masten. "Our annual fall foliage reports are a popular service that helps Georgians and visitors get maximum enjoyment out of this great time of year."

Link: Georgia Forestry Commission
Link: State 'Leaf Watch' helps peepers plan trips