USA Today cites Day in article on fall foliage
Michael Day, an associate research professor of tree physiology and physiological ecology at the University of Maine, was cited in the USA Today report, “Is the unusual warmth ruining the fall foliage season?” The ongoing summerlike heat in the Northeast has dulled some of the annual foliage, according to the article. A very hot, dry September allowed the leaves to continue producing the chlorophyll that keeps them green, the article states. Overall, vibrant fall colors occur when three factors come together: the days get shorter, dry weather prevails, and the temperature drops, according to Day.