Residents invited to track autumn leaf changes in Forest of Dean

MEMBERS of the public have been invited to record and share their observations of changing leaves in the Forest of Dean, as part of a nationwide citizen science project.

Autumn leaf watch, running from September to November, will encourage people to record the seasonal changing leaves using Forestry England’s new online autumn colour tracker.

The data will help to build a picture of how autumn colour develops across different regions, habitats and tree species.

Chris Sorenson, Forest Management Advisor at Forestry England, said: “Autumn is one of nature’s most spectacular seasonal events, but it also gives us a fascinating insight into how the nation’s forests are responding to the world around them. The timing and intensity of autumn colour can vary significantly with weather and growing conditions, and understanding those changes is increasingly important as our climate changes.

“We manage forests for generations, so we have to think long-term about what our forests might look like in the future and how we can make sure they remain healthy and resilient as conditions change. Projects like autumn leaf watch give us another way to build that picture, while giving people the opportunity to get closer to nature and notice the seasonal changes happening in their local forest.

“This year’s hot and dry summer has put many trees under stress, so it’s too early to say exactly what autumn will bring. But if we get some much-needed rainfall, there could still be a spectacular display of gold, amber and red.”

Visitors to the Forest of Dean may start to see the first signs of autumn colour from late September, with many locations typically reaching their peak displays during October and early November.

With millions of trees preparing for their annual transformation, Forestry England is encouraging people to enjoy the changing season and help track one of nature's most celebrated spectacles.

You can share your findings via the Forestry England Autumn Leaf Watch website.