Maine businesses gearing up for fall foliage season
Some trees starting to change color
With Labor Day over, many businesses in Maine are looking forward to leaf-peeping season.
Trees in many parts of the state are already starting to change color.
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It may seem early for this, but with a late start to the summer weather, many businesses are hoping tourists come back to see the leaves change.
"Most parks are talking about Labor Day's over, things will slow down now, for us, we're just gearing up for our busy season. Foliage is coming, and we've got a lot of special events that will draw in a lot of people," said Fritz Appleby, Bradbury Mountain State Park manager.
Experts are saying the weather has provided ideal conditions for some spectacular scenery. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry said this year appears to be on schedule and the abundant rainfall and cooler temperatures this summer and spring should bring a beautiful season perfect for leaf peeping in Maine and on the mountain.
"We have one of the highest peaks with a good view, close to Portland. Everyone wants to get the view of the foliage, and they come to Bradbury to enjoy it. I'm already seeing a lot of colors starting to develop in the swampy areas, a little splash here and there. It's looking like it's going to shape up nicely," said Appleby.
The Bradbury Mountain team is tending to trails and getting the park ready for leaf peepers.
"These people come in to see our fall colors from other parts of the country, or the world, they're spending money while they're here, so, they're driving the economy in the areas that have the color," said Appleby.
They depend on that economy just down from the mountain in Freeport.
"It's funny how weather can certainly predict how sales are going to be," said Ann Marie Lee, Mangey Moose assistant manager.
For many store owners, a long full fall foliage season also means big money.
"That's huge. It's a different crowd. We'll get a lot of tour buses here in Freeport,so there's that different crowd that you're catering to," said Lee.
Pam Swearingen has been coming here her entire life to devour everything fall.
"The weather is cool and crisp and not too hot and the colors are just amazing, with the reds and the yellows and the oranges. Quite spectacular," said Swearingen.
There are some great events coming up this fall at state parks like Bradbury Mountain, including the popular Cast Iron Cookoff. You can find more information by clicking here.