Cemetery Policy on Artificial Flowers and Non-Biodegradable Decor
Cemetery Policies for a Sustainable Future
As part of our commitment to sustainability, our Cemetery Board of Trustees, Church Wardens, and Priest agreed to implement a revision to our policy on tributes placed on grave lots. Effective November 1st, 2025, this change ensures that we not only preserve the natural beauty of our grounds but also actively contribute to the health of the planet for future generations. For this reason, the decision is made to prohibit the use of artificial flowers, non-biodegradable ribbons, wrappings, and ornaments.
Artificial flowers, while aesthetically pleasing for a time, are made from non-biodegradable materials that contribute to environmental pollution. Additionally, as parts of these and other types of decorations become dislodged by wind and rain, they often interfere with maintenance equipment, scattering shredded debris. This can damage equipment or become projectiles that could injure workers or harm monuments.
A Safer and More Sustainable Ecosystem
By disallowing all non-biodegradable items, including pebbles, we aim to foster a safer and more sustainable ecosystem that reflects our dedication to people and the planet. The removal of non-biodegradable articles encourages the use of natural floral arrangements in warm months, and natural wreaths in cool months. We currently allow flowers in a non-corrosive metal vase with metal spikes to anchor them, one vase per lot, and this practice will continue, but with natural flowers only. A cabinet marked FLOWER CONTAINERS is provided next to the Brock St side of the cemetery maintenance building. Cemetery owned vases are to be returned there when not in use.
A Cemetery Flower-Cutting Garden
To help ease our policies, we are creating a cemetery flower-cutting garden. For a minimum donation of $10.00 parishioners and those visiting their loved ones interred in our cemetery may cut ten stems for bouquets on a grave lot. Those who are a long distance from the cemetery but wish to pay tribute to a loved one may request the placement of a borrowed cemetery vase with ten stems for a minimum donation of $20.00. Flowers are for cemetery use only and should not be removed from the premises. For a winter tribute, we are providing workshops on natural, biodegradable, wreath building; minimum donation $20.00.
For Future Generations
Our focus is on creating a landscape that is both respectful of our history and forward-thinking in its environmental stewardship. Our desire is to promote biodiversity as we cultivate native plants and practices that support local wildlife, especially pollinators. We believe that attracting butterflies and songbirds back to our land will enhance the experience of our visitors. These policies not only shape our current practices but will also create a sustainable framework that future generations can build upon.