Spectacular Fall Color? Maybe!

Even though it's still officially summer, the Northwest Connecticut Chamber of Commerce is hoping the beautiful weather so far this September hangs on through the fall.

Joann Ryan, president and CEO of the Northwest Connecticut Chamber of Commerce, says good weather and good fall foliage is critical for inns, restaurants, and shops throughout Litchfield County. "It's very important to us," Ryan said, "it's the second most heavily traveled tourism district in the state and foliage season is our season."

But what makes foliage the most vibrant? Generally, it's the weather. Jeff Ward from the Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station says there are three main things trees need to maximize their colors:

• Wet weather during growing season (spring and summer) which promotes healthy tree growth. Too much rain, however, can promote disease.
• Cool temperatures, but not freezing temperatures, during foliage season.
• Dry weather when the leaves begin to change colors. A heavy or soaking rain can cause the red pigment in leaves to wash off and become muted.

So far this year the weather has been quite wet, but not so wet to cause problems. This is setting the stage for the potential of great color throughout the state. Still to be determined, however, is the temperature later this fall and whether the dry weather in the last few weeks lasts through the fall.

Joann Ryan says even if the color isn't perfect, businesses in Litchfield County are resilient.  "We just continue to do what we have to do to support the amazing businesses in the area." 

Even with the current economic slump the chamber of commerce is optimistic.  "People will be using the hotels, frequenting the restaurants, and doing the shops. I think they're prepared for a very very positive season," Ryan said.

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