Central and Northern Ohio could see better fall color than in recent years. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) wants residents to track it week by week.

ODNR launched its Ohio Fall Color web page earlier than expected the week of Sept. 29, featuring an interactive progress map and weekly updates compiled by state park, forest and preserve employees across Ohio. The first weekly update posts Thursday, Oct. 1.

The agency's Division of Forestry expects peak color in Central Ohio in mid-to-late October. The far north of Ohio should peak around mid-October, and Southern Ohio at the end of October and into early November.

ODNR Fall Color Forester David Parrott said in a Sept. 24 press release that conditions are lining up well. Late-summer rainfall kept Ohio out of the drought conditions that dulled color in recent years, and forecasters see a 50% chance of average autumn weather.

"Conditions this year seem to be aligning for great fall colors," Parrott said. "Unlike previous years, we are entering autumn without near-drought or drought conditions … These are all good signs for producing vibrant fall colors."

That extra moisture should help many tree species change color at the same time, as first reported by NBC4, producing more vivid views across the region.

Closer to home, Highbanks Metro Park in Lewis Center was showing early hints of color along its river-bluff views of the Olentangy as of Sept. 25, ABC6 reported. Jill Snyder of Columbus Metro Parks told the Columbus Dispatch that trees in northern parks typically begin to change before southern parks, making Highbanks one of the first spots in the metro area to watch.

ODNR videographer Josiah Wade told NBC4 on Sept. 29 that the agency also formed a team to produce weekly video updates throughout October. Wade said the videos help draw people "out of the urban areas, and get out into our state parks, our state forests, our nature preserves, to see the fall colors."

As of Sept. 29, the statewide map still reads "mostly green." Weekly reports will continue through October and possibly into early November if color extends past Halloween.

Upcoming fall events near Powell and Liberty Township:

• Boo at the Zoo, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Every weekend starting Saturday, Oct. 3 through Oct. 25. Trick-or-treat trail, giant pumpkin carving, character meet-and-greet and fun house.
• Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival: Through Oct. 25, Thursdays through Sundays, 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. More than 70 sets of Asian lanterns featuring wildlife scenes.