Okay, all you summer sun-worshippers, don't be packing away all your fun-in-the-sun necessities just yet. Although the next few weeks in our area will see the gradual transition from summer to autumn weather, it's not a "bang-and-it's-autumn" thing, but usually rather subtle changes that we barely notice.

Many mornings will have a slight chill in the air, and green leaves on some trees will change to non-green colors. Garden plants such as tomatoes, peppers and squash will begin withering and dying. Goldenrod stalks will turn from green to brown, valley fog will become an almost daily dawn phenomenon, and large flocks of blackbirds and starlings will dot telephone pole wires in early preparation for their later migration south.

I guess many folks view the Labor Day weekend as summer's last hurrah, and in some ways they're right, for those aforementioned changes usually start just about that time. But that doesn't mean we'll not get the occasional stretch of summer-like weather as we creep toward and into autumn (the equinox is September 23 this year). Between now and November our area can yield some of the most pleasant weather and outdoor opportunities of the entire year. Sadly, all too many pack away their outdoor interests the day after Labor Day, thereby needlessly extending the waiting time at least two months until they get to enjoy next year's outings. Regardless of the activity – walking, hiking, nature watching, biking – the daytime temperatures and humidity are normally far more agreeable for the next couple of months than they have been. There's few biting or buzzing insects to bother you, and popular outdoor areas are usually lightly used now, so you pretty much have them to yourself. If you enjoy watching wildlife, the next two months are primetime as critters of all kinds start scurrying about, trying to fatten up for the long winter ahead

If you like to fish, the next two months can produce some of the best angling of the year as most species of gamefish also start feeding heavily in preparation for the winter. Three of my favorite fall species are walleye, pike and pickerel. With all the ponds and lakes and rivers in our immediate area, there's no shortage of fishing opportunities, and because of the cooler weather and water, these fish tend to be active all day long. An added bonus is that you may find yourself the only angler there, especially once the bulk of the small game hunting seasons open in early October. Speaking of hunting, now's a good time to break out your favorite squirrel gun and spend some pleasant time in the woods, seeking the basic ingredient for some delicious pot pies or stews. Not many hunters take advantage of the September squirrel season, but it's a wonderful way to get outside, exercise, and if you hunt other game later in the year, a good way to scout for those game species. And waterfowlers can take advantage of the early Canada goose season this month. These birds have become so numerous that they're proving to be major pest, damaging crops and greenfields and fouling waters with their abundant droppings.

Just about everyone has a camera these days, either digital or 35mm, and most savor the fall foliage change as the prime time to use them. But some years see that change shortened or prematurely obliterated by heavy winds and rain, or the colors are not as vibrant as normal. If you look around over the next couple of weeks, you'll note some overlooked scenic opportunities just waiting for your camera. Sumacs will be afire with blazing red leaves, while some maples and aspen (poplar) will be exhibiting early-season reds and yellows. And since there's lower humidity, the early morning and late afternoon air and sky are clearer with no haze, which can yield some outstanding, crystal-clear scenic shots.

If you're a bowhunter, and have your choice deer hunting areas pinned down, this is the month to get your tree stands or blinds up and ready so any scent you leave behind will disappear by the opener in October. Also it allows the deer to become accustomed to any shooting lane pruning you may have done. By doing this, it will leave the remaining time to the opener free for you to get the rest of your gear ready and hone your archery skills by spending more time target shooting.