Crown Hill May See Natural Burials in 2024
May 21, 2024
Crown Hill May See Natural Burials in 2024
Officials have taken the first step that could allow a section of Crown Hill Cemetery to be set aside for natural burials. The decision was made during the Monday, May 13, meeting of the Salem Common Council.
This initiative was requested by Weathers Funeral Home, as through our extensive community engagement we have heard the need from residents to be offered the opportunity for natural burials, also known as green burials, in Salem, IN. Natural burials became more popular during the pandemic as people embraced simplicity.
The new changes include the elimination of the requirement for a vault. Domes can be used instead of vaults, which allow the burial to naturally biodegrade and seep into the ground. A concrete burial box can also be used.
Natural burials – commonly called “green” burials – provide simpler, less costly, and more environmentally friendly burials that avoid harsh chemicals such as formaldehyde, which is a suspected human carcinogen. Visit our Green Burials page to learn more about what is a green burial. To understand the difference between traditional burials versus green burials, visit our blog "Comparing Green Burials in Salem to Traditional Burials."
Carrie Chastain, founder and co-owner of Weathers Funeral home, is becoming certified in natural burials. Carrie says “the process eliminates traditional embalming, although some customers could opt for environmentally friendly embalming, which uses essential oils. Either biodegradable caskets or shrouds are used, as well as markers that are either flat or made of natural materials. Cemeteries that accommodate such burials aren’t mowed as frequently and can include wildflower plantings.”
Most cemeteries, including Crown Hill, require vaults, which is contrary to the notion of biodegradable materials.
Brock Chastain, co-owner of Weathers Funeral Home, said the portion of Crown Hill Cemetery near the ponds would be ideal for natural burials. He estimated the section could include 50 plots to start.
Mayor Justin Green noted that the cemetery has space to expand. Continue to read the quotes from the Mayor, on the Salem Readers article, “Crown Hill Could See Natural Burials” posted on May 17th, 2024.
Council member Dylan Moore made a motion to have the city’s attorney prepare an ordinance that would accommodate natural burials. His motion was supported by a unanimous vote, with all Council members in attendance.
This initiative was requested by Weathers Funeral Home, as through our extensive community engagement we have heard the need from residents to be offered the opportunity for natural burials, also known as green burials, in Salem, IN. Natural burials became more popular during the pandemic as people embraced simplicity.
The new changes include the elimination of the requirement for a vault. Domes can be used instead of vaults, which allow the burial to naturally biodegrade and seep into the ground. A concrete burial box can also be used.
What is a Green Burial?
Natural burials – commonly called “green” burials – provide simpler, less costly, and more environmentally friendly burials that avoid harsh chemicals such as formaldehyde, which is a suspected human carcinogen. Visit our Green Burials page to learn more about what is a green burial. To understand the difference between traditional burials versus green burials, visit our blog "Comparing Green Burials in Salem to Traditional Burials."
Carrie Chastain, founder and co-owner of Weathers Funeral home, is becoming certified in natural burials. Carrie says “the process eliminates traditional embalming, although some customers could opt for environmentally friendly embalming, which uses essential oils. Either biodegradable caskets or shrouds are used, as well as markers that are either flat or made of natural materials. Cemeteries that accommodate such burials aren’t mowed as frequently and can include wildflower plantings.”
Most cemeteries, including Crown Hill, require vaults, which is contrary to the notion of biodegradable materials.
Brock Chastain, co-owner of Weathers Funeral Home, said the portion of Crown Hill Cemetery near the ponds would be ideal for natural burials. He estimated the section could include 50 plots to start.
Mayor Justin Green noted that the cemetery has space to expand. Continue to read the quotes from the Mayor, on the Salem Readers article, “Crown Hill Could See Natural Burials” posted on May 17th, 2024.
Council member Dylan Moore made a motion to have the city’s attorney prepare an ordinance that would accommodate natural burials. His motion was supported by a unanimous vote, with all Council members in attendance.
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Our Green Burial in Indiana Forum is now available on YouTube!
Weathers Funeral Home: Now a Certified Green Burial Services Provider in Salem, Indiana.
Environmental Impact of Green Burials in Salem
Planning a Green Burial: A Step by Step Guide
When it comes to burial practices, the options are more diverse than ever. In Salem, Indiana, many families are considering alternatives that are both respectful to their loved ones and kind to the environment.
