Woodland Burial Grounds

The Royal Forestry Society Quarterly Journal of Forestry - free to members - embraces a wide range of topics to do with trees in the countryside. Here are some extracts from an article written by Steve Scott in the January 2003 QJF entitled "Woodland Burial Grounds - a Case Study". He works for the Forestry Commission as the Conservator for the East of England. His e-mail address is steve.scott@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

Woodland burial grounds can offer an ecologically and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cemeteries or crematoria and contribute to the creation of new woodland too.

There are now over 160 "Woodland Burial Grounds" recorded by the Natural Death Centre in Britain. Most of those are in the very early stages of establishment and operate on the policy of one tree to one grave, replacing the traditional headstone with a tree.

There are a variety of different layouts ranging from rather regimented, lineal designs without much landscape or ecological merit through to others where burial takes place within glades surrounded by emerging woodland.

Planning permission is needed for the change of land use to a burial ground. The majority of woodland burial grounds are being created on what were green field sites and will take some years before developing into woodlands.

From the woodland creation viewpoint, the choice of site is important as is the woodland design plan. The choice of trees to be planted is vital to match the right species of tree to the soil and climate conditions and bearing in mind the size they may eventually grow to.

There are important aspects of environmental concern not directly related to tree planting as well - such as the depth of burial, the design of coffins and the preparation of the body. The layout of the woodland must also incorporate access for undertakers, site maintenance and visitor facilities.

The young trees must be selected, planted and cared for correctly using the same criteria applicable to creating any new woodland whatever its purpose. Trees are long lived organisms and the landscapers and foresters require a vision of what the woodland will look like perhaps 50 years ahead. Long-term management strategies are fundamental.

Different woodland burial sites operate differently and have different policies and pricing schemes. Many of them are still in their early days and are learning from their mistakes and successes.

Woodland Burial Grounds are a niche market which offers a very practical alternative to the traditional cemetery or crematorium and contribute in a modest way to woodland creation. Well thought through, they can also create habitats for wildlife and places of beauty and tranquility but they do need to be sensitively planned and well maintained by people who know about trees.

For further information on wider natural burial issues contact: The Natural Death Centre, 6 Blackstock Mews, London N4 2BT; tel: 0871 288 2098; e-mail:ndc@alberyfoundation.org.uk website:www.naturaldeath.org.uk.