KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency says now is the perfect time for East Tennesseans to visit one of Knoxville’s most popular summer attractions as thousands of sunflowers are blooming at the Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area.
According to TWRA, the sunflower fields are currently at their peak display and are expected to remain impressive throughout the week.
“The sunflowers at Forks of the River WMA are in bloom now and will continue to grow slightly taller over the next several days,” said Matthew Cameron with TWRA.
The Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area encompasses approximately 648 acres south of the Tennessee River. The site marks the point where the Holston and French Broad rivers join to form the Tennessee River, making it a unique natural destination for visitors, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Sunflowers Serve More Than a Scenic Purpose
While the bright yellow fields attract thousands of visitors each year, TWRA officials emphasize that the sunflowers are planted primarily to support wildlife.
As the plants mature and seeds begin falling to the ground, they become an important food source for numerous Tennessee species.
According to Cameron, wildlife that benefits from the sunflower fields includes:
- Songbirds
- Wild turkeys
- Mourning doves
- Northern bobwhite quail
- Eastern gray squirrels
- White-tailed deer
The blooms also provide valuable habitat and food sources for pollinators.
“The blooms also support a variety of pollinators, such as hummingbirds, native bees, honeybees and butterflies,” Cameron said.
Visitors Asked Not to Pick Flowers
TWRA is reminding visitors to leave the flowers intact and avoid picking blossoms while visiting the fields.
Officials say preserving the sunflowers ensures they can continue providing food and habitat benefits to wildlife while allowing other visitors to enjoy the display.
Cameron said TWRA plans to begin spraying the sunflower fields at the end of the month to accelerate maturation and support wildlife management goals.
The annual sunflower bloom has become one of East Tennessee’s most popular seasonal outdoor destinations, drawing visitors from across the region for sightseeing, photography and nature viewing opportunities.
