Haywood County -- Drivers traveling along I-40 have likely noticed the vibrant bursts of color lining the highway, but now those blooms have official "bragging rights." The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has announced the winners of the 2025 Wildflower Awards, and Haywood County has secured a top spot for its stunning roadside displays.
A Milestone Year for Roadside Beauty
This year’s awards carry extra weight as the NCDOT celebrates the 40th Anniversary of its Wildflower Program. Established in 1985, the program was designed to enhance the driving experience while supporting local ecosystems.
In a competitive field across the Western Region, Haywood County (Division 14) was awarded Second Place for the Best Regional Wildflower Planting.
Where to See the Winning Blooms
The award-winning stretch is located at I-40 at Mile Marker 34 in Haywood County. This specific site was recognized by judges for its:
Visual Impact: A carefully curated mix of colors and species that stand out against the mountain backdrop.
Maintenance Quality: Excellence in soil preparation and weed control by local maintenance crews.
Pollinator Support: Providing a critical habitat for bees, butterflies, and other essential insects.
The Team Behind the Petals
The awards, sponsored by The Garden Club of North Carolina, recognize the NCDOT maintenance staff who work behind the scenes. While many view the flowers as a natural occurrence, they are the result of meticulous planning, specific seeding schedules, and dedicated care by the roadside environmental teams.
2025 Statewide and Regional Winners
While Haywood County took home second place in the Western Region, several other areas were recognized for their commitment to beautification:
Western Region (Best Regional Wildflower Planting)
First Place: Division 12 – U.S. 321 at mile marker 19 in Gaston County.
Second Place: Division 14 – I-40 at mile marker 34 in Haywood County.
Central Region (Best Regional Wildflower Planting)
First Place: Division 9 – U.S. 52 at Perch Road in Stokes County.
Second Place: Division 10 – I-485 Outer Loop in Mecklenburg County.
Eastern Region (Best Regional Wildflower Planting)
First Place: Division 4 – I-42 at mile marker 361 in Wayne County.
Second Place: Division 2 – U.S. 70 and N.C. 148 in Lenoir County.
Specialty Awards
Best Overall Division Wildflower Program: Division 4 (includes Edgecombe, Halifax, Johnston, Nash, Wayne, and Wilson counties).
William D. Johnson Daylily Award (First Place): Division 4 – I-587 and Downing Street in Wilson County.
William D. Johnson Daylily Award (Second Place): Division 7 – U.S. 29 in Rockingham County.
Why It Matters
Beyond the aesthetics, the NCDOT Wildflower Program saves taxpayer money by reducing the need for frequent mowing and helps prevent erosion on steep mountain embankments. For Western North Carolina, these award-winning blooms serve as a vibrant welcome to the gateway of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Image: NCDOT