On August 21, 2025, Dr. Robert Keller spoke at Pendley Creek Brewing in Jasper as part of the Pickens Historical Society’s “Drinking and History” series. His talk explored the evolution of burial practices in the U.S. and the rise of green burial as a sustainable end-of-life option.
The Atlantic Coast Conservancy Connection
Dr. Keller, founder and CEO of the Atlantic Coast Conservancy (ACC), shared details about the 85-acre Potts Mountain Burial Ground (PMBG). PMBG is Georgia’s first conservation cemetery which is located off Steve Tate Highway in eastern Pickens County. The 85 acre site is part of 1,378 acres permanently protected by ACC. It also includes the restored Potts family cemetery, dating back to 1856.
Dr. Keller explained how the conservation cemetery falls into the ACC's mission "to provide 21st century solutions and sound scientific applications for conservation of critical natural resources in the face of a changing climate focusing on the Southeastern United States with specific utilization of geographic information systems applications in land conservation, ecosystem services, carbon sequestration and conservation biology".
Since founding ACC in 2010, the ACC and its partners have helped protect over 130,000 acres across 18 states.
Ecosystem Services
Potts Mountain Burial Ground promotes ecosystem services on the conserved land using eco-friendly burial practices such as:
- No embalming or concrete vaults
- Biodegradable caskets and shrouds
- A focus on preserving the natural landscape
Dr. Keller also discussed how these modern practices reflect a return to older, more natural burial traditions.
The Pickens Historical Society hosts “Drinking and History” events bi-monthly, offering relaxed talks on local history and cultural topics. Click here for more information on green burials.