Fall Color Updates Now Available
September 2002
"Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism"

Reports on the progress of fall color in The Natural State are now available on the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism's web site, www.Arkansas.com.

On a weekly basis, a statewide network of 40 spotters files reports on the status of the leaves in their area. The reports are compiled and then posted to www.Arkansas.com and are available to the public by 5 p.m. (CST) each Thursday. The up-to-date reports are accessible by clicking on the colorful fall leaves icon on the site's homepage. The reports are also available by calling 1-800-NATURAL (answered live 24 hours a day) or (501) 682-7777 during normal business hours.

A series of state and national scenic highways in the Ozarks provide for eye-catching views as well. Scenic 7 Byway, one of the most well-known drives in the state, provides viewing options for both the Ozarks and the Ouachita Mountains. Arkansas Highways 14, 16, 9, 23 and 21 are a few of the others in the Ozarks that provide great views of fall foliage.

According to Eddie Fugatt, assistant research director for the Department and the person heading the spotters network, this year has the potential to be a good one. "Weather conditions from mid-September to mid-to-late October are what give us bright color. Ideal conditions include lots of sunny days with highs in the 60s to lower 70s, followed by crisp nights with temperatures in the 35- to 40-degree range. Abundant rainfall earlier in the summer and moderate temperatures should result in more hardwoods entering  the fall in a green, healthy state," Fugatt said.