Green Burial

A conservation cemetery goes one step beyond natural burial. Part of every burial fee helps buy, restore, and care for land, and the burial grounds are protected forever by a conservation easement. Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery is certified at the highest level by the Green Burial Council, and it's part of the Prairie Creek Preserve, which borders Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.

Every burial is different, but most follow the same simple rhythm. The grave is dug by hand, often the day before. Family and friends gather at the cemetery, walk with their loved one to the gravesite, and hold whatever ceremony is meaningful to them. Those who wish can help lower their loved one into the earth and place a handful of soil in the grave, and everyone is welcome to help fill it in.

Yes. Cremated remains can be buried in a biodegradable container or poured directly into the grave, creating a gravesite your family can visit. Please note that Prairie Creek does not allow ashes to be scattered on the grounds.

Instead of a headstone, each grave is marked with a small brass marker stamped with your loved one's name and dates. The location of every grave is also recorded by GPS, so it can always be found. Families can also plant native plants at the gravesite through the cemetery's Living Memorials program.

Yes. Prairie Creek can't accept payment before a death occurs, but you can complete their Burial Preference form to reserve a general area of the cemetery. Our team can also help you preplan the rest of your arrangements, so your wishes are clear and your family knows what to expect.

Absolutely. Many families gather at the graveside, surrounded by meadows and trees, and share stories, prayers, music, or a few quiet moments. Others hold a funeral or memorial service before the burial. Because Prairie Creek uses refrigeration rather than embalming, there's no need to rush, so you have time to plan a goodbye that feels right. Our funeral directors are here to help you review your options.

Prairie Creek welcomes everyone, regardless of race, faith, religious beliefs, national origin, gender, or political affiliation. The cemetery doesn't set aside separate sections for any one group, but it does have an archway area that accommodates some Jewish burial customs and allows spouses or partners of any faith to be buried together.