WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE FOREST?
This is my favorite time of year. The weather isn’t miserably hot and things are coming to “fruition” in the form of actual fruit and moving deer. Fall is known for its spectacular colors in turning foliage. After staring for hours from my tree-stand while hunting deer, it’s become apparent to me why I also like this time of year, particularly in some areas. Oak stands are great places to be when they’re dropping acorns for deer-hunters. However, their aesthetic appeal doesn’t go unnoticed either. I’ve realized that their crowns let in more sunlight than maple stands, just enough to take advantage of fall’s “golden” light. Maybe it’s the angle of the sun this time of year, but when it shines through an oak stand–especially with some turning foliage–the color is filtered and cast a brilliant gold throughout the forest. A photo doesn’t do it justice, but being there seems to.
Ryan Trapani
Director of Forest Services
Catskill Forest Association