A week in the woods is medicine for the soul

With the hint of fall that we have experienced the past week, I felt rejuvenated. Alas, we did have some temperatures in the 80’s, but it still cooled down nicely at night. I am not telling you anything that you don’t already know, but I love having the best of both worlds.

 

I am looking forward to spending a week up north with my son Brad and his son Dylan. I know that we will be doing a lot of fishing, which I am really looking forward to.

 

I have spent some time going through my tackle boxes searching for that “magic” lure to bring along. So many options, not enough time to use them all. It’s a good problem to have, but I need to use them wisely. Ha! Ha!

 

There is no better feeling than when a fish attacks your lure just as it hits the water. Those are times that dreams are made of if you are an angler. I am looking forward to basking in the colors of fall. I can imagine buzzing down the lake with a cool mist hitting my face as those wonderful colors paint the shoreline.

 

I will leave it up to Brad and Dylan where we fish first. I only have one request and that is to make a trip to Spider Lake. Which is a lake that we all look forward to fishing. Visiting this lake will fulfill my summer wish list and make the winter go by much faster.

 

The 2024 fall colors forecast

Fall colors in Minnesota typically peak in mid-to-late-September through mid-October, starting in the northwest and working toward the southeast corner of Minnesota. Peak fall color usually persists in a location for two weeks, but can vary widely depending on location and weather.

 

Many factors play into the timing and brilliance of the fall color season in Minnesota, including day length, temperatures and rainfall. Weather impacts fall colors both before and during the fall season.

 

“Brilliant fall color occurs when early fall days are sunny, nights are chilly and there is adequate rainfall throughout the growing season,” said Brian Schwingle, a DNR forest health specialist.

 

In contrast to recent years of drought, this year’s growing season has been much wetter, which is overall better for trees. However, the abundance of moisture has also promoted fungal leaf diseases on species, including aspen and oak. While not concerning for the health of the tree, the diseases might reduce the overall brilliance of the landscape due to early leaf shedding or dead spots and blotches on leaves.

 

The main driver of leaves changing color is the decrease of daily sunlight. Photosynthesis, or the production of sugars that depend on sunlight, begins to slow down in response to shortening days. This leads to lower levels of chlorophyll, the pigment that supports photosynthesis and gives leaves their green color. When chlorophyll is reduced, other color pigments in the leaves begin to show, like yellow and oranges.

 

“The DNR’s fall color map has been reliable in recent years,” Schwingle said. “An earlier, lighter frost will shift peak fall color earlier in the fall color window, so pay attention to the forecast if you can be flexible with your travel timing. Regardless of conditions, there should be plenty of beautiful foliage to enjoy.”

 

“Fall is a magical time in Minnesota when nature puts on a beautiful show for all to see,” said Ann Pierce, DNR Parks and Trails director. “The crisp air, the vibrant colors and the serene landscapes create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking, biking, camping or simply enjoying the view, fall is the perfect time to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of Minnesota state parks and other state lands.”

 

Until next time: In a few weeks we will be having the colors of fall right here in our area. It will be a great time to take a drive in the country. Always be aware of farm machinery which will be on the roads later in the fall.

 

Please show your support for our troops who are now deployed. These service men and women are making that sacrifice, so that we may have the many freedoms we enjoy today.