Like a pastel painting, the hues of red and yellow willow bark add a nice touch of colour to the Columbia Valley.

People usually associate reds and yellows with autumn but these colours are also found at this time of year in the willows.

Researchers believe the change in willow branch colour results from temperature increases in the cambium layer. But whatever the cause, this burst of colour is a welcome sight to an otherwise drab landscape.

by Larry Halverson
Friends of Kootenay National Park

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