Serenity ridge natural burial cemetery. Natural burials can be less expensive than t...

Serenity ridge natural burial cemetery. Natural burials can be less expensive than traditional burials, Berg said. In current times, green burial is also rooted in the spirit of social and environmental change. Apr 2, 2024 · Natural cemeteries are a trend that is growing in the state—the first such cemetery in Maryland was Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum in Baltimore County in January 2023—and Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery is a green burial cemetery founded on the belief that our community needs a simpler more natural place of burial, open to everyone. The history behind natural burials reveals a return to ancient, eco-friendly practices that honor […] Most people planning a funeral spend little time thinking about how the space itself affects the people inside it. Nov 1, 2021 · It amends zoning laws to allow Berg to preserve the land, which he hopes to soon call Serenity Ridge: Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, as a natural burial ground. Our mission is to protect and restore the surrounding fields and forests, waters, wildlife, and vistas while providing Together with his brothers, David and Richard, Howard co-founded Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery on this family land. We’re dedicated to serving the community with compassion, dignity, and respect and we are completely non-denominational. After visiting a natural cemetery in New Jersey, Berg came to see the approach as a Losing a loved one is an emotional journey, and choosing their final resting place can be daunting. Here, everything that goes in the ground must be biodegradable—shrouds are cotton or linen, coffins are more sustainable poplar or pine, and may not have metal liners, nails, or At Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum in Windsor Mill, “the idea is to care for the dead with minimal environmental impact. From traditional cemetery burials to natural and eco-friendly alternatives like green burial grounds and conservation preserves, families have a variety of options that reflect individual values and The land has been family-owned since 1965. Serenity Ridge is a natural burial cemetery. "She was a simple person and we all Serenity Ridge is the ONLY 100% Natural Burial cemetery in Maryland. General Price List Effective March 2025 Interment Rights (includes Perpetual Care): Oct 31, 2024 · A member of the grounds crew with Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum drops flowers on the descendants pinewood box constructed with wooden screws following Oct. Parks/CR Staff) Oct 31, 2024 · Grounds crew with Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum carry the deceased in a pinewood box constructed with wooden screws Oct. Feb 28, 2024 · Serenity Ridge pioneers green burial practices while honoring the departed with eco-friendly solutions in Maryland. We have created a ‘green’ or natural burial cemetery as an alternative to conventional burial, while offering compassionate care to individuals and families as they grieve and process the transitions of life and death. The natural burial cemetery reflects the same ecological values as the preserve: Bodies return naturally to the earth without chemicals or vaults, Burial areas are managed as meadows, forests, and conservation land Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum had its first Fall Festival along with the official Dedication. The goal is to have a minimum of 100 different species of native Maryland trees and woody plants in addition to replanting native Maryland plants and flowers. Enhancements to Serenity Ridge Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Maryland lies Serenity Ridge, an exceptional sanctuary that stands as the only 100% natural burial cemetery in our beautiful state. Our trio that put together the fantastic celebration include Chloe’ Allison, Allison Berg-Lewis and our marketing guru Susi Silesky of Silesky Marketing. As opposed to traditional burial practices, Serenity Ridge focuses on eco-friendly principles and emphasizes a return to nature. Register or Buy Tickets, Price information. The body returns to soil in a natural setting, often integrated with conservation practices. We are fortunate to have a natural burial conservation site within minutes of our location. If Serenity Ridge attracts a following, the family could change course, he said. Because of cemetery requirement it is often hard to find a location that allows the green burial you may want. Our mission is to protect and restore the surrounding fields and forests, waters, wildlife, and vistas while providing a simple Mar 28, 2023 · So, the day after she died, her father, Chris Zinn, visited Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum in Baltimore County, a 45-minute drive from the family’s home in Abingdon, Md. In a natural burial your loved one is laid to rest in a biodegradable casket, shroud, or urn. Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum was founded on the belief that our community needed a simpler more natural place of burial, open to everyone. It is our intent to provide Serenity Ridge Nature Preserve and Arboretum (SRNPA) is a 97-acre property in Baltimore County, lovingly stewarded by the Berg family since 1965. We have created a 'green' or natural burial cemetery as an alternative to conventional burial, while offering compassionate care to individuals and families as they grieve and process the transitions of life and death. Meetings for site selections are made by appointment only, Monday – Friday. This approach to burial is not a new concept but rather a return to ancient practices that honor the earth. , Feb. Aug 6, 2024 · Serenity Ridge focuses on these eco-conscious methods to reduce the environmental burden often associated with traditional burials. Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum can be contacted via phone at 240-628-8725 for pricing, hours and directions. Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum (9am-5pm; stay on paths) Baltimore Maryland United States Jul 11, 2024 · Growing interest in green burials: a second dedicated cemetery for green burials will open in Maryland this year On a brisk, sunny morning, Evelyn Bradley climbs the grassy hill at Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery to visit the grave of her mother, Anna Ballard. Parks/CR Staff) Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, situated in the heart of Windsor Mill, Maryland, is a tranquil oasis designed to commemorate lives while also respecting and preserving the environment. " May 30, 2024 · Natural burials, also known as green burials, have been gaining popularity as people seek more environmentally friendly and sustainable end-of-life options. Apr 18, 2024 · On a brisk, sunny morning, Evelyn Bradley walks up a grassy hill at Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery to visit the grave site of her mother, Anne Ballar Apr 30, 2023 · Westminster Astronomical Society, Inc. Please send us an email or call the Serenity Ridge line to schedule an appointment to choose a site. Its website, Oct 26, 2023 · Discover the guide that explores planning a natural burial and what you need to know to for a meaningful and eco-friendly experience. Nov 11, 2025 · Natural burial laws in Maryland bring new options for families who want eco‑friendly arrangements with clarity about regulation and process. (Kevin J. Witzke's Funeral Home offers a variety of funeral services, from traditional funerals to competitively priced cremations, serving Ellicott City, MD and the surrounding communities. Serenity Ridge Cemetery Valley & Meadows location for burial - $1,925 Opening and closing of the grave - $1,925 Total for cemetery - $3850 Additional fees for Death Certificates, tent, chairs, newspaper notice. Jan 29, 2024 · Maryland’s Only Natural Burial Cemetery Makes Death an Act of Conservation Internment at Serenity Ridge is like the dust-to-dust burials of the pre-Civil War era. Natural burial pays special attention to returning the body back to the earth in a safe way that is simple and natural, allows for greater family interaction, and is a fraction of the cost of conventional burial. Apr 18, 2024 · WINDSOR MILL, Md. These sites use biodegradable containers and avoid chemical embalming, allowing the body to return gently to the earth. A Sanctuary Where Nature Meets Comfort In the heart of scenic landscapes, Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery stands as a quiet oasis for those seeking a more meaningful approach to end-of-life arrangements. Embrace sustainability and serenity by finding peace in natural burial for your loved one, creating a lasting tribute to their life. Experience: Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery · Education: Florida State University · Location: Ellicott City · 500+ connections on LinkedIn. Green Burial Directory Use our Green Burial Directory below and State Guides to Natural Burial to learn all about Green Burial near you. Visitors must not The cemetery is open to visitors daily from 9:00AM-5:00PM. Our practices and policies follow the guidelines set forth by the Green Burial Council (GBC). We also offer funeral pre-planning and carry a wide selection of caskets, vaults, urns and burial containers. Jul 9, 2024 · Community Impact: Combining conservation with burial practices. Green cemeteries are becoming more popular as people look for Jan 29, 2024 · Maryland’s Only Natural Burial Cemetery Makes Death an Act of Conservation Internment at Serenity Ridge is like the dust-to-dust burials of the pre-Civil War era. Serenity Ridge is the first 100% natural burial cemetery in the state of Maryland, open since January 2023. We Jul 11, 2024 · Growing interest in green burials: a second dedicated cemetery for green burials will open in Maryland this year On a brisk, sunny morning, Evelyn Bradley climbs the grassy hill at Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery to visit the grave of her mother, Anna Ballard. It is also home to Maryland’s first 100% natural burial cemetery, Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery—a place where the cycles of life and nature are honored in harmony. Apr 9, 2023 · The first "green" burial in Serenity Ridge, an eco-friendly cemetery and nature reserve, is seen in Windsor Mill, Md. Together with his brothers, David and Richard, Howard co-founded Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery on this family land. "She was a simple person and we all wanted things to Apr 9, 2023 · The first "green" burial in Serenity Ridge, an eco-friendly cemetery and nature reserve, is seen in Windsor Mill, Md. Aug 8, 2023 · In fact, before exploring Serenity Ridge, it’s essential to familiarize ourselves with the various burial choices Maryland provides. Jan 25, 2023 · Berg didn’t initially decide to open Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, located in Baltimore County, MD, for such lofty reasons. 🌿 Learn about… Oct 18, 2025 · Eventbrite - Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Ground & Arboretum presents Fall Festival at Serenity Ridge Nature Preserve - Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, Windsor Mill, MD. Dec 18, 2025 · Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum — the state’s only exclusively green/natural burial cemetery — seeks to provide an alternative to conventional burials. In 2023, the Berg brothers — Richard, David and Howard — completed five years of working with the community and local civic leaders to open Serenity Ridge as the first cemetery dedicated to only natural burials in Maryland. Sep 22, 2023 · This contrasts with more environmentally-friendly burial practices, such as green burials, where biodegradable materials allow the body and casket to decompose naturally, enriching the soil. Howard and Richard Berg founders of both the Nature Preserve and Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery, Maryland’s first 100% natural (green) burial cemetery. Their vision extended beyond sustainable burial practices—they wanted the space to serve as a source of peace and healing for those experiencing personal loss, and as a sanctuary for the community to reconnect with nature. We are certified by the Green Burial Council and regulated by the State Office of Cemetery Oversight as a licensed, permanent Maryland cemetery. This week's episode of Spotlight Now features Steve and Melissa from Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery, a beautiful 177-acre eco-friendly burial ground in Windsor Mill, Maryland. Denise Koch visited the Baltimore County cemetery called, appropriately, "Serenity Ridge," a non-denominational, only exclusively natural burial Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum had its first Fall Festival along with the official Dedication. There are no burial vaults or embalming fluid permitted. Jun 20, 2025 · Certified natural burial grounds, such as Serenity Ridge in Baltimore County, comply with state and local regulations. "She was a simple person and we all Nov 1, 2024 · The land has been family-owned since 1965. It sits inside of a nature preserve and nationally registered arboretum. Serenity Ridge is a natural burial cemetery, so there are no manicured lawns. Our mission is to protect and restore the surrounding fields and forests, waters, wildlife, and vistas while providing a simple Jun 20, 2022 · Serenity Ridge, the first exclusively green burial cemetery in Maryland, is located in Baltimore County, and will open in September. We are working on developing a Level 2 arboretum, that we will be registering with ArbNet. org Oct 8, 2025 · Description:Welcome to Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, Maryland’s first exclusively natural burial grounds. Michael Cordes, board member, and Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, situated in the heart of Windsor Mill, Maryland, is a tranquil oasis designed to commemorate lives while also respecting and preserving the environment. Serenity Ridge in Windsor Mill operates as Maryland’s first conservation cemetery, combining burial with habitat preservation. It doesn't look much like a cemetery from the Nov 28, 2022 · A deer watches visitors walk through Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, which is billed as Maryland’s first dedicated green burial cemetery. For the Berg family, it all started with a 177-acre parcel of land in their family since the 1960s. Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum 0 Free Apr 18, 2024 · By: Megan Knight, ABC2 Baltimore WINDSOR MILL, Md. It’s not just about farewell; it’s about honoring legacies and embracing the beauty of nature at life’s final chapter. Serenity Ridge is the only complete natural burial cemetery in Maryland. happening at Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, Windsor Mill, MD on Sat, 18 Oct, 2025 at 11:00 am. Mar 29, 2023 · The day after she died, her father, Chris Zinn, visited Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum in Baltimore County, a 45-minute drive from the family’s home in Abingdon, Maryland. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Resource Depletion In short, producing concrete requires extracting finite natural resources, including sand, gravel, and limestone. The cemetery is open to visitors daily from 9:00AM-5:00PM. Our mission is to protect and restore the surrounding fields and forests, waters, wildlife, and vistas while providing Cemeteries - Harry H. The plot is marked only by a small stone plaque lying flat against the ground. Discover green burial options and plan now. Find a natural green burial site near you using the map below. Another example includes the Highgate Cemetery in London, which has incorporated natural burial practices within its historic grounds. 9, 2024, services in Windsor Mill. “She was a […] Welcome to Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, Maryland's first exclusively natural burial grounds. He and his two brothers were looking for the best use of former farmland with forested edges that they had inherited in an area with options limited by zoning. View Bonnie S Sorak’s profile on LinkedIn, a Enhancements to Serenity Ridge Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Maryland lies Serenity Ridge, an exceptional sanctuary that stands as the only 100% natural burial cemetery in our beautiful state. Explore a Green burial cemetery map worldwide to find certified natural burial sites and community locations. . Apr 1, 2025 · Green burial options offer families meaningful ways to honor loved ones while preserving and protecting the earth. Dec 18, 2025 · The Chesapeake Bay portion of Virginia has two cemeteries offering natural burials, one of them certified, like Serenity Ridge, by the National Green Burial Council. Our team was present all 3 days to meet and greet all attendees. 5-4 feet, to stay inside the oxygenated portion of the ground, which aids in natural decomposition. These burial sites emphasize harmony with the natural world, where the body returns to the earth, completing a life cycle in the most organic way possible. ” Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum is located at 2406 Ridge Rd in Windsor Mill, Maryland 21244. What does it mean if your grave is green? A green cemetery plot is usually considered ‘green’ if it meets certain criteria. The grounds are both Green Burial Council-certified and ArbNet Level 1 Arboretum -designated, reflecting dual recognition as a functioning conservation site. All scheduled tours and events in the cemetery are subject to change due to inclement weather, scheduled services, or the immediate needs of a family experiencing a loss. Oct 31, 2024 · A member of the grounds crew with Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum drops flowers on the descendants pinewood box constructed with wooden screws following Oct. Our mission is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Nov 1, 2024 · Maryland's first natural burial cemetery, Serenity Ridge, provides a green and intimate burial option, allowing families to return loved ones to the earth without embalming or vaults. Parks/CR Staff) Baltimore County cemetery offers green burials October 31, 2024 By Christopher Gunty Catholic Review Filed Under: Feature, Local News, News Serenity Ridge provides a list of funeral homes that can work with green burials, including the requirement that they have refrigeration, since natural burials can take place as many as 10 days after death, to provide time for family and friends to gather. Nov 29, 2022 · But Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum in Windsor Mill will be Maryland’s first cemetery dedicated to the practice, according to the Maryland Office of Cemetery Oversight. Tune in to Natural burial pays special attention to returning the body back to the earth in a safe way that is simple and natural, allows for greater family interaction, and is a fraction of the cost of conventional burial. Find event and ticket information. Nov 1, 2024 · The land has been family-owned since 1965. Founded on the belief that the community deserves accessible and environmentally sustainable options, Serenity Ridge emphasizes meaningful experiences while promoting the preservation of nature. Pennsylvania, Maryland, and the District of Columbia also have “hybrid” cemeteries that offer green burials on a portion of their land, and the options are expanding. Unlike traditional cemeteries that focus on mass graves and Certification by the Green Burial Council allows consumers to rest assured that the green or natural burial services that they are receiving have been thoroughly vetted against stringent and up-to-date standards – created and continuously reviewed by a team of environmentalists, scientists, lawyers, and representatives from the funeral industry. Welcome to Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery, founded on the belief that our community deserves a simpler, more natural burial option, accessible to all. SERENITY RIDGE NATURAL BURIAL CEMETERY AND ARBORETUM in Milford Mill, reviews by real people. We are certified by the Green Burial Council, the national certifying body for green burial standards for natural Sep 20, 2025 · Natural burial in practice Green burial avoids embalming, uses a simple shroud or biodegradable casket, and forgoes vaults. They are specially designated to accommodate: Apr 2, 2024 · Natural cemeteries are a trend that is growing in the state—the first such cemetery in Maryland was Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum in Baltimore County in January 2023—and Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery, located in Windsor Mill, MD, is Maryland's first exclusively natural burial cemetery, offering a compassionate alternative to traditional burial practices. Committed to equality in death, she is passionate about natural burial and helping families with their decisions. Visitors must not Apr 15, 2024 · A burial trend is natural or 'green' burial. At least one other Maryland landowner is working on what could be the state’s second all-natural burial ground, to be named Reflection Park, in Silver Spring. These sites demonstrate how natural burials can coexist with cultural heritage, providing a sustainable and respectful option for end-of-life care. We offer a ‘green’ or natural burial cemetery as an alternative to conventional burial, providing compassionate care to individuals and families as they navigate the transitions of life and death. Our goal is to reinvigorate the native wildlife, trees, shrubs and flowers that naturally flourish all around the The natural, or green, burial allows for only a biodegradable casket, shroud or urn which can help avoid the use of toxic chemicals, metal, and protects wildlife habitats and native plant communities. 27 Followers, 73 Following, 9 Posts - Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery (@serenityridgenatural) on Instagram: "Welcome to Maryland’s first 100% Natural Burial Cemetery! Located in Windsor Mill, Maryland in Baltimore County. Sep 30, 2025 · In Maryland, Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery reports that a natural burial with gravesite and interment fees typically costs around 3,800 to 3,850 dollars. This allows for individuals to be returned to nature in the most environmentally friendly way possible, in an all-natural material casket, urn or shroud. Oct 8, 2025 · Description:Welcome to Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, Maryland’s first exclusively natural burial grounds. "She was a simple person and we all wanted things to Aug 22, 2023 · Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum — the state’s only exclusively green/natural burial cemetery — seeks to provide an alternative to conventional burials. Jul 22, 2025 · Natural Burial: Authenticity and Environmental Stewardship Natural burial grounds, including those offered by Serenity Ridge and similar sanctuaries, focus on environmentally conscious practices. Natural burials offer a profound Melissa Baughman, Cemetery Manager Melissa Baughman brings over ten years of cemetery management experience in Maryland to Serenity Ridge. Yelp is a fun and easy way to find, recommend and talk about what’s great and not so great in Milford Mill and beyond. To schedule an appointment with a Serenity Ridge team member, please call us at 240-719-6396. The plot is marked only by a small stone plaque leaning against the ground. Grief is already a physical experience that raises cortisol and strains the nervous system, and the setting where a burial takes place becomes part of At Serenity Ridge, Maryland’s first exclusively natural burial cemetery, burials take place on 45 acres of protected land adjoining Patapsco State Park. Discover how different religions honor life and death through natural burial practices that respect both spiritual beliefs and the environment. The depth of the grave is 3. Welcome to Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum, Maryland's first exclusively natural burial grounds. 9, 2024, in Windsor Mill. 10, 2023. The following funeral homes have green burial Apr 28, 2025 · Places like Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery are leading the way, guided by the belief that memorial landscapes should serve both people and planet. Oct 18, 2025 · Find tickets & information for Fall Festival at Serenity Ridge Nature Preserve. Green cemeteries are becoming more popular as people look for Quick Links Home About Trails & Arboretum Visit Us Events Education Blog Contact Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery Contact Us 2406 Ridge Road Windsor Mill, MD 21244 240-466-9296 contact@serenityridgenaturepreserve. These aren’t just gardens—they’re a cultural reset, inviting us to step away from sterile tradition and into a more reciprocal relationship with the earth. Here, everything that goes in the ground must be biodegradable—shrouds are cotton or linen, coffins are more sustainable poplar or pine, and may not have metal liners, nails, or Nov 1, 2024 · From the rural road in Windsor Mill, a small sign and a gravel driveway mark the entrance to Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery and Arboretum. — On a brisk, sunny morning, Evelyn Bradley walks up a grassy hill at Serenity Ridge Natural Burial Cemetery to visit the grave site of her mother, Anne Ballard. xqpi cycsk wjoti ltl npklwo akl cdjhtd dweml tii zvdyl