In several areas across Iowa peak fall colors are happening now.

According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources in west central Iowa, there are a few pockets of red oaks, along with dark red colors in certain spots. In central Iowa, the DNR says there are excellent colors on maples, with still lots of yellows from hickory, cottonwood and walnut trees. 

Trees Forever Field Coordinator in Jefferson Brad Riphagen says this year the peak fall colors are happening a week or two sooner and he explains why that is.

“Simply because of the lack of moisture the last month or two. Trees are showing some signs of that concern as well.”

Riphagen urges people to see the fall colors as soon as they can if they haven’t already before the trees go dormant until next spring.