What is CREEC?

The City of Hickory is currently designing the Catawba River Environmental Education Center (CREEC), a new destination that will showcase one of the region’s most treasured natural resources: the Catawba River and Lake Hickory. The center will offer opportunities for environmental learning, outdoor recreation, wildlife observation, cultural exploration, and engaging activities for visitors of all ages.

What is the vision for CREEC?

The City of Hickory envisions the Catawba River Environmental Education Center as the epicenter of environmental learning and encounter in the Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton Metropolitan Statistical Area. Celebrating its most precious natural assets, the Catawba River and Lake Hickory, the City is working to develop a hybrid experience where multi-generational learning, recreation, wildlife, cultural comprehension, fun, and an esteem for natural resources intersect. As part of a larger innovation district, CREEC will become a place visitors want to return to time and time again. 

Currently in the design process, features of the center and its beautiful 24+ acres of woods and riverfront may include an indoor theater, hands-on and virtual exhibits, a viewing tower, meeting spaces, an outdoor amphitheater, trails with natural classrooms, boat docks, a deck overlooking the river, and ample infrastructure to facilitate student field trips, special events and tourism. 

Where will it be located?

The City purchased 24.5 acres along the Catawba River and Drowning Creek in Burke County for watershed protection and as the site for a future environmental education center. The addresses are 964 and 970 Airport Rhodhiss Road, Hickory. The property currently includes a 3,660-square-foot residence and a 2,000-square-foot garage/recreation room that were previously used as a second residence and vacation/corporate retreat rental property.

Who are the partners in this project?

Using the Catawba River as its location, CREEC will be powered by a collaborative network of partners specializing in the stewardship of natural resources, education, hydro-advocacy, and cultures closely tied to our waters. The City is honored to have Duke Energy, Appalachian State University-Hickory, Catawba Riverkeeper,  Catawba Science Center, and the Catawba Nation as advisors on this tremendous project.  

What is the budget for the project?

The project is currently in the early stages of design and environmental review. The final budget will depend on the amount of grant funding secured, and the work is expected to be completed in multiple phases over time.

Questions?

For questions or comments, please contact:

Special Projects Manager Natalie Jackson
njackson@hickorync.gov
828-851-6473

Management Analyst Kate Van Sickle
kvansickle@hickorync.gov
828-323-7429