What You Can Expect Of A Natural Burial
Have you heard of something referred to as a “natural burial“? You may be wondering, “What’s the attraction?” Some people think this is a great idea because the person who passed away is, for all intents and purposes, going back to their roots with all that compostable material, fresh air, etc. For others, however, not only is it unfamiliar, it may not seem particularly desirable, at first.
If more people knew what to expect of a natural burial, they may or may not choose that particular option. They would, however, be more enlightened and, therefore, be able to make a more informed decision. In the pursuit of knowledge, here’s some information as to what can be expected of a natural burial.
A Natural Gravesite
Natural burial cemeteries don’t look like an average cemetery. You will be walking across uneven ground and the soil composition, land size, etc. differs as well. Level pavement may not be available as woodland and other natural circumstances help facilitate the natural area’s ongoing ecology.
If a biodegradable casket is being used, it will get to the site via an approved car or hearse because all other parking is off site.
There is no traditional script required for natural burial services. You can do away with the service altogether, conduct your own, or hire someone. These are flexible affairs.
The Reception and Grave Site Marker
There may be tents or yurts set up for receptions, depending on the location. This is where you can have a post service gathering, if you so choose.
A temporary marker may be placed to mark the gravesite. It may be wooden. Some natural cemeteries allow a stone marker while others allow nothing.
Natural burial sites frequently are privately owned meadows, land, forests, or farms. If you get to know the area, you will be able to find your way back to the burial site.
Natural Cemetery Rules
Though the following rules don’t apply to every natural burial site and or cemetery, they are relatively typical of most. You’ll want to check with the owner of the land itself to see what specific rules and/or regulations are in place before deciding to use that site.
- No smoking is permitted in the area. This is particularly applicable to a woodland natural burial cemetery.
- This is not your traditional, manicured cemetery. Lower your expectations because a lot of money isn’t spent on making the area look cultivated and/or pretty.
- Everything must be allowed to take its course, so most places don’t permit you to tend the grave. Some natural burial cemeteries allow the planting of a tree or other native plant.
- No type of permanent memorial is allowed to personalize the grave in most cases. Some sites allow a simple stone, wood marker, or something else that is entirely natural.
- Caskets can be made with bamboo, wicker, willow, or cardboard. They must be biodegradable.
American Heritage Cemetery Funeral Home Crematory Deals with Natural Burials and More
Whether you are preplanning your own end-of-life arrangements or have been tasked with planning the funeral of a loved one, you may be considering natural burial. Hopefully, the above information has been helpful. If you still have questions, however, or need some other type of assistance or guidance, that’s what we’re here for. Our family owned and operated business is comprised of compassionate, professional individuals. We are ready to assist you in whatever you need when dealing with one of the hardest times of your life.
Please contact us at American Heritage Cemetery Funeral Home Crematory to find out more about the services we offer!