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Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Threats to Wildflowers
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Wildflowers in the Smokies face a number of human-instigated threats, including air pollution, off-trail hiking, and poaching. Long term research conducted in the park shows that ground level ozone pollution is injuring at least 30 species of native plants. Ground level ozone, sometimes called "smog," is created when nitrogen oxides from automobiles and factories mix with sunlight and natural hydrocarbons. Black-eyed susan, tall milkweed, and coneflower are among the most vulnerable wildflowers. Plant poaching appears to be on the rise in the Smokies. Some commercial poachers remove hundreds of plants each trip and make several trips annually. In recent years groups of poachers have been apprehended with well over 1,000 American ginseng roots. Aside from ginseng, the most popular targets are orchids and trilliums. Overzealous gardeners take a serious toll by removing showy wildflowers for transplanting back home and careless hikers trample delicate wildflowers when they leave established trails. If you observe people digging plants in the park, report the activity to the nearest ranger station or call (865) 436-1230.
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![Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Infestation Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Infestation](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081018133855im_/http://www.nps.gov/ser/customcf/apps/CMS_HandF/Pictures/GRSM_HWA-sm.jpg) Hemlock Woolly Adelgids Eastern hemlock trees are under attack from a non-native insect called the hemlock woolly adelgid. more... | |
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![Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America's most visited national park. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America's most visited national park.](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20081018133855im_/http://www.nps.gov/ser/customcf/apps/CMS_HandF/Pictures/GRSM_dykC4407.jpg) |
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Did You Know?
Between 8-10 million people visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park each year, making it the most visited national park in the country.
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Last Updated: July 24, 2006 at 22:37 EST |