Autumn, a breezy season full of change and everything pumpkin spice. The fall season marks the slow transition between the sweaty summer heat and the chilling winter freeze, a time when leaves transition and the weather evens out to somewhere in the middle of both extreme seasons. Fall is a favorite for many for a variety of reasons, whether it be the color scheme or the comforting foods, the autumn season cannot be ignored.

One student at YLHS, Samuel Martinez (9), expresses his love for the season as he shares, “Fall is definitely my favorite season. I like the weather, and Thanksgiving is also my favorite holiday.” But autumn seems to be facing a threat. The effects of climate change have only negatively impacted major components of the fall season. 

So, how has climate change impacted fall? Well, the extending warmth of the earth does not allow autumn to be as cool as it should for as long as it should be, meaning the window of time for fall leaves to be at “peak foliage” is shortened.

Similarly, climate change has not permitted the proper conditions for good foliage to occur. The best conditions for foliage include sufficient rainfall and cool nights, which only decrease as the effects of climate change increase. Additionally, harvesting is a more delicate ordeal because the change in climate has the ability to help certain crops prosper, but others suffer in the same scenario.

Farmers also struggle to maintain and manage their crops because of these conditions. Finally, since fall is now warmer, it means it is also drier. This is bad news for regions that are incredibly prone to wildfires, because this creates an extension of fire season, which can have devastatingly harmful effects on every human community and wildlife ecosystems alike, according to The Climate Reality Project.

Let these facts serve as motivation to help improve the state of our planet. Although one might believe their small acts aren’t helpful, they are! Especially when every person takes on a small act for climate change prevention. Mrs. Pilkenton (S) shares her wisdom by stating, “On a personal level, I think awareness and education are the most powerful. Once we understand all these different contributing factors, we can make better decisions on a regular basis in our daily lives. Small changes can make a big impact over time!”

Receiving the proper education on these topics is incredibly helpful when it comes to taking action to care for the planet. In case you’re unsure of what you can do to help, here are a few different ways. When possible, drive less. Instead, walk or ride a bike! Attempt to take fewer flights when traveling and take the train if the distance permits. Lastly, make sure to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Buy fewer electronics, clothing, or other items, and repair items if possible. We must take special care of our earth; we only have one.