First Signs of Fall

This year in East Tennessee we have had a long, hot Summer, but if you ask the seasoned locals, they will tell you that our Fall is right around the corner – perhaps even coming early this year. You can always trust their judgment because those that live in the mountains pay attention to what nature tells them. They see that the leaves on some of the early species of trees, such as sourwoods, are already turning at higher elevations. They observe the weather patterns are beginning to trend towards dry, sunny days with low humidity. They notice that there is more wildlife about, as they forage to build reserves for the Winter ahead. Likewise, insects such as ladybugs are beginning to seek shelter in manmade structures to survive the coming cold. All of these things, along with the days getting shorter, are signs that our Fall is right around the corner.

– Thomas Krajewski, Activities Manager