The City of Knoxville is proposing to enhance a part of Victor Ashe Park by converting 17 acres of turf grass into a more healthy and ecologically diverse oak savannah – with native trees, shrubs, grasses and wildflowers.

Think butterflies, birds and biodiversity.

To answer questions and get additional input from park users, the City’s Parks and Recreation and Public Service departments are hosting a community meeting at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 22, at the park’s Large Pavilion. 

Community members will be invited to walk the part of the park where the natural restoration is proposed. 

The idea is to create inside Victor Ashe Park a lush native-plant ecosystem that provides shade, reduces stormwater runoff, and provides food and shelter for birds, pollinators and other wildlife.

Similar to how natural areas were created at Lakeshore Park and in other locations throughout Knox County and the South, the transition would begin slowly with seedings, plantings and root establishment. In the second and third years, the area would become increasingly lush and diverse.

Native oak, blackgum, loblolly pine and native grasses would be planted, and wildflowers would include black-eyed Susan, milkweed, goldenrod, partridge pea and wild bergamot.

This habitat restoration project is designed to complement existing recreation uses in Victor Ashe Park. Cross-country trails and the disc golf course would not be affected by the oak savannah project.

The City of Knoxville ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. 

To request language translation services, contact the City’s Human Resources Department at [email protected] or 865-215-3100. For disability accommodations, contact the HR Department at [email protected] or 865-215-3100.