Green Burial Information

Green Burial Information

What Is a Green Burial?

A green or natural burial is an option for individuals who wish to return to the earth in the most traditional and environmentally mindful way. This approach focuses on reducing environmental impact by lowering carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and using biodegradable, locally sourced materials whenever possible.


For whole-body burial, families often choose simple natural materials such as plain wood, wicker, grass, or a shroud. For cremation, biodegradable urns or scattering are typically preferred. Green burial is permitted in all 50 states, though each state has its own set of rules and requirements. Our team has the experience to honor your wishes while also managing all legal and regulatory details, helping ease stress during a difficult time.


Family Participation in Green Burial

One meaningful aspect of green burial is the opportunity for loved ones to take an active role, if they wish. While no one is required to participate, many families find comfort in being part of the process.

Here are just a few ways your family can participate if you choose to:

  • Place into the shroud or casket
  • Help carry your loved one to the burial site
  • Assist in lowering them into the grave (up to 6 family members may participate)
  • Place organic material into the grave
  • Help fill the grave at the conclusion of the service


Every service is unique, and we are here to help create an experience that reflects your family’s preferences and values. The video below is a portion of the natural burial service for Nancy Nash-Cummings and is shared with the permission of her family. Not only did her family participate in all the ways referenced above, but a friend who was unable to be present was able to share the song she recorded for Nan through the funeral home's sound system.






















A common misconception is that choosing a green burial means you cannot have a viewing. This is not the case—families may still arrange a visitation or service, often using natural essential oil-based embalming to allow for short-term preservation.


Locations for Natural Burial

Before selecting a location, we encourage families to visit in person to ensure the space feels meaningfully suited to their loved one.

Private Property

Some families choose a natural burial on their own land. If this option is being considered, we can help determine whether the property meets all legal requirements. For some, keeping loved ones close brings comfort; for others, it may not be the best fit. We can help you understand what to expect.

Sections Within Established Cemeteries

Many long-established cemeteries now offer designated natural burial sections. In our region, options include:

  • Ascutney Cemetery (Windsor)
  • Select cemeteries in Corinth
  • Hartland Village Cemetery
  • Hillside Cemetery (Norwich)
  • Select cemeteries in Lyme
  • Select cemeteries in Plainfield
  • Select cemeteries in Thetford
  • West Lebanon Cemetery

These sections are often open regardless of religious background, while some cemeteries provide natural burial areas specifically for religious communities. Additional cemeteries are currently reviewing natural burial options, and we expect this list to grow. If you’re wondering about a cemetery not mentioned here, please let us know—we’re happy to find the answer for you.

Natural Burial Cemeteries

There are also dedicated natural burial grounds within a reasonable drive of the Upper Valley, including:

  • Vermont Forest Cemetery


Terramation Information

What is terramation?

Terramation, also called natural organic reduction or human composting, is a gentle process that transforms a body into living soil. It asks nothing of fire, chemicals, or concrete. It simply gives a person back to the earth, the way a forest floor renews itself, and it leaves behind soil that grows things.


The body rests in a warm vessel with wood chips, alfalfa, and straw. Naturally occurring microbes, the same quiet workers that turn autumn leaves into spring soil, do the rest over about 2 months. What remains is about half a cubic yard of rich, living soil, which a family can use to plant, enrich, and remember.


Some families choose to hold a laying in ceremony, a memorial or celebration of life, and a planting service after the soil is returned.














A Personal Decision

Planning for the end of life is deeply personal, and there is no “right” or “wrong” choice—only what feels true to you and your family. If you are considering a green burial or terramation, we welcome you to call us at  or  to talk with one of our licensed funeral directors about the full range of possibilities.