As Autumn Begins, Track Fall Foliage + Visit Smithsonian Environmental Center

MARYLAND — Bring out the pumpkin spice because fall starts Wednesday. Autumn fans will be happy to learn that fall foliage reports are already viewable. The greenery is still plentiful in central Maryland, but leaves are starting to change colors in the western part of the state.

Nature lovers can also visit the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Edgewater this autumn. Marylanders can additionally experience riverfest, colonial history and public service.

Patch recently partnered with several local organizations to bring you their latest news. This guest contribution comes from National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways and Chesapeake Conservancy. Here's what Jody Hedeman Couser submitted to help you explore the Chesapeake Bay:

"Fall Foliage Updates and Happenings

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has a MD weekly foliage report that includes a color-coded map with four designations: changing, mid-point, peak and past peak. They also have a more detailed look at specific parks and specific trees, as well as suggestions for trips and fall events. Virginia fall foliage updates are also available, and you can also sign up for weekly updates and get suggestions for fall getaways. Shenandoah National Park has its own live webcams."

"Smithsonian Environmental Research Center Tours & Canoe Trips

Experience an insider's view of SERC, on a free outdoor walking tour led by volunteer docents. Walk along the waterfront, cross marsh boardwalks and hike through the forest, while learning about SERC’s cutting-edge research projects on climate change and other issues where the land meets the sea. Tours are available Sept. 22, 25, and 29. Public canoe trips are also available on Oct. 16, Oct. 23, and Oct. 30. $18 to $25. Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater, MD."

"St. Marys Riverfest

Celebrate the St Marys River at the 16th Annual RiverFest, taking place at Historic St. Mary's City. Enjoy live music, try kayaking and seining, see tall ships, and enjoy boat rides and environmental activities. Visit exhibits about local flora and fauna and take home a free Bay-friendly backyard booklet. Get up-close with birds of prey, turtles, oysters, and other seldom-seen neighbors. At 1:45 pm[,] join the ceremonial Wade-In for Clean Water with Bernie Fowler. The St. Maries Citty Militia will hold their annual muster in conjunction with RiverFest. March along as militia men practice drills and perform a mock battle. Rain or shine; free admission. Sept. 25, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm; Historic St. Mary's City Museum. More information."

"Mount Harmon Colonial Faire

Travel back in time and enjoy hunting for handcrafted treasures at the open air Mount Harmon Colonial & Artisan Market Faire. Handmade colonial and artisan crafts and collectibles will be on display for purchase, enjoy hearth cooking demos, colonial encampment, manor house tours, and the Eastern Shore Food Court and Tavern. $10 per person; children 12 and under free. Sept. 25, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sept. 26 10:00 am to 3:00 pm; Mount Harmon Plantation, Earleville, MD. More information and tickets."

"September 25 Is National Public Lands Day

National Public Lands Day is traditionally one of the nation's largest single-day volunteer efforts. Celebrate your connection with your community’s green space by volunteering your time or just getting out for some much-needed R&R. All National Park Service sites that normally charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Here is a link for searching Mid-Atlantic area events (just enter your state), including a clean up at Wolf Trap in Virginia, and trail work at Greenbelt Park in Maryland. Another great event is Masonville Cove's Urban Wildlife Conservation Celebration on Sept. 25-26 in Baltimore. Virginia State Parks have more than twenty special Public Lands Day events to choose from. Virginia State Parks Public Lands Day events."

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