Lumbee Cultural Center Wetland Restoration
about this project
For decades, the Lumbee tribe has owned and operated the Lumbee Recreation and Cultural
Center, transforming what was once a golf course into a vibrant space for cultural and recreational activities. Long before the tribe acquired it, the land’s natural wetlands were drained, a change that diminished its ability to absorb rainfall and manage river overflow during storms.

As a result, the area—and its downstream neighbors—became more vulnerable to flooding. Restoring wetlands on the property presents an opportunity not just to preserve the heritage and cultural value of this land, but to restore its ecological balance. By bringing back the wetlands, we can reduce flood risks while enhancing the land’s natural ability to support both people and the environment.
Project Goals
- Develop a plan for wetland restoration to reconnect waters and reduce flooding impacts in the area of the Lumbee Tribe Cultural Center.
- Support the installation of the Lumbee Medicinal Garden
PROJECT COORDINATOR
Katie McClean (katie.mcclean@carolinawetlands.org)
Restoration Plan Overview
Carolina Wetlands Association has received grant funding to work with the Lumbee Tribe to develop a watershed restoration plan for an area near the confluence of the Lumbee River and Gum Swamp. The project will:
Planned Outcomes
The outcome will be a community-based Restoration Plan with strategies to:
- Reduce flood impact
- Improve water quality
- Improve habitat
- Integrate with Lumbee Cultural Center plans
The plan will be a key step for the Lumbee Tribe to secure funding for future implementation. In addition to the Restoration Plan, the project will also support the installation of the Medicinal Garden at the Cultural Center.
Partners
Wetlands Solutions, Inc
Skeo Solutions
Lumbee Tribe of NC
Funding Sources
NC Land and Water Fund
Duke Energy Resilience Accelerator Grant Program
Project Photos
