Individuals who choose burial in the Natural Burial Preserve for themselves or loved ones have considered and agree to the following:
- Embalming of bodies buried in the Natural Burial Preserve is prohibited.
- Metal, fiberglass, or other non-biodegradable materials are prohibited in burial containers or coverings.
- Concrete vaults are prohibited in the Natural Burial Preserve.
- Scattering or burying of cremains is not permitted in the cemetery except for in special circumstances and upon approval by Narrow Ridge
- Stone grave markers are permitted, but the stone must be native to the area and consistent with the overall geology of East Tennessee.
- Stone grave markers may not exceed an area of 2 square feet.
- Stone grave markers must be laid flat (not erect) on the grave and must be laid under the supervision of Narrow Ridge staff.
- Engravings are allowed on grave markers, provided any such engravings are approved by the staff at the Narrow Ridge Earth Literacy Center in advance.
- No synthetic flowers or memorabilia are permitted on gravesites.
- Only native plants may be planted in the Natural Burial Preserve, and all plantings require prior approval by Narrow Ridge Earth Literacy Center.
- Only organic soil, fertilizer, mulch or other amendments are permitted for use in the Natural Burial Preserve.
- Narrow Ridge staff will not serve as pall bearers or provide hands-on assistance with burials in the burial preserve.
- Once all of the graves within a section of the Natural Burial Preserve are filled, natural succession will be allowed to occur resulting in the reforestation of that section of the burial preserve.
The above is a summary of Terms of Use of the Natural Burial Preserve. The binding agreement must be signed prior to burial.
Additionally, during the covid-19 pandemic:
- A face masks or covering that properly covers the nose and mouth is required for anyone present at the Natural Burial Preserve for reserving a burial site or attending a burial.
- Social distancing from persons outside of your household or “Covid bubble” is required for burials or appointments for reservations in the Natural Burial Preserve.
