Big Moves for the Lumbee Cultural Center Wetland Restoration Project!

katie.mcclean • July 19, 2025

We’re thrilled to share some exciting updates from the Lumbee Cultural Center Wetland

Restoration Project!


On July 5, our team had the honor of joining the vibrant celebration of Lumbee Homecoming at UNC-Pembroke. Surrounded by music, food, and community spirit, we set up a table to connect with folks about the restoration project and share educational materials on Lumbee traditional medicinal plants found at the Cultural Center.

We had a great turnout at our table, with many community members stopping by to learn more about the wetlands, share their memories of the Cultural Center, and offer thoughtful ideas about what they value and hope to see at the restored site. The feedback we received is already helping us shape a vision that reflects the Lumbee community’s priorities and cultural connections to the land.  But we’re not done listening. If you’re a community member familiar with the area, we want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and dreams for the project by taking our quick survey.

Complete a survey

What’s Next?


The restoration work is moving forward with exciting momentum. Hydrological modeling is underway to better understand how water flows across the site, which will guide strategies for improving wetland function and reducing flooding. At the same time, we’re developing an early conceptual design that weaves together ecological restoration goals with community input on access, trails, and features that will make the site more welcoming and usable. This September, we’re looking forward to sharing updates, survey results, and fresh ideas at the Lumbee Tribe’s “Dance of the Harvest Moon” Pow Wow—we hope to see you there!


Together, we’re restoring a wetland and creating a space that reflects the values and vision of the community.


More information

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