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What is green burial?
A green burial returns the body naturally to the earth: no embalming, no concrete vaults or plastic liners, and only biodegradable shrouds or caskets. This allows for complete, natural decomposition and integration into the local ecosystem. A green burial is estimated to have a carbon footprint that is one-fifteenth that of a traditional burial, and one-tenth that of cremation.
What is conservation burial?
A conservation burial is considered the highest standard of green burial, as it occurs on land conserved in partnership with a land trust or conservation organization. Each burial directly supports long-term land stewardship, habitat restoration, and ecological care.
Where is the site that was approved?
Sacred Groves Memorial Woodland & Savannah is a 45-acre site located on a beautiful ridgetop in Kneeland with deep, fertile soil, approximately a 30-minute drive from Eureka. The land is owned by the Eric and Mary Almquist Trust, and it will continue to support hay production and oak woodland restoration.
How much will a green burial or ash-spreading cost?
The Sacred Groves Board of Directors is actively assessing the pricing needed to cover expenses and ensure that our services are financially sustainable. Our intention is to keep cost as low as possible while supporting robust land stewardship. We plan to establish community funds to help those in need.
What is Sacred Groves?
Sacred Groves is a California nonprofit religious corporation, founded to serve people of all backgrounds who wish to merge into nature at life’s end while supporting land conservation and restoration. It’s not a commercial venture but a community service project supported by donations.
What options will there be for burial and ash-spreading?
The Sacred Groves Board of Directors is working to make a price list with options available. Options we envision include:
- Family Groves between 400-2500 square feet with 3-6 native California trees
- Individual burial trees
- Burial in restored grassland
- Spreading of ashes in a restored oak savannah or woodland
- Spreading of human compost starting in 2027
Can families visit loved ones?
Yes. While the Sacred Groves Memorial Woodland and Savannah is on private land and not open to the public, families of those interred will be able to locate and visit burial sites at designated times and by permission.
What if my questions aren't answered here?
We know that these FAQ's are far from comprehensive, and we are working to make more information available on our website and newsletters. Please stay tuned. You are always welcome to reach out to us with your questions and comments at SacredFamilyGroves@gmail.com.
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