Frequently Asked Questions
Green burial is a natural method of burying a person without toxic embalming fluids, metal caskets, or concrete vaults. The body is placed in a biodegradable container or shroud, then buried in a way that allows it to decompose naturally and return to the earth.
The short answer is no. While green burials are ecologically favorable, not all green cemeteries are on conserved land. We are Georgia's first dedicated conservation cemetery.
Potts Mountain is a perpetually conserved property. Here, natural burial not only avoids embalming and uses biodegradable materials, but also ensures the land is permanently protected through a perpetual conservation easement. This legal agreement permanently limits land use to protect its natural values. We insure the cemetery is restored to its natural condition where it provides habitat for native plants and wildlife. Moreover, this preservation of the natural landscape endures for future generations.
Yes. Green burial is legal in all 50 U.S. states, including Georgia.
Interest in natural burial is growing, but green burials are not new. Burials before the Civil War were mainly conducted this way, as are many Jewish and Muslim burials.
Today, green burials are surging in popularity due to their simplicity, cost savings, and conservation value. People are moving toward this process as a means of preservation, reduced climate impact, and conservation of native habitats.
Oftentimes, yes, green burial can be a more affordable option. Why? Because green burials eliminate the cost of embalming, fancy metal caskets, cement vaults, and high-maintenance cemetery plots. Contact us for more information.
Yes! Pre-planning or pre-arranging funerals and burial plots ensures your wishes are honored. Also, this process relieves family members from decision-making during a difficult time. Contact us to schedule a tour.
Yes. Potts Mountain Burial Ground and our partner Roper Funeral Home both offer private viewings. You can hold a viewing, and/or a service at the Funeral Home, or prior to burial on the mountain.
You’re welcome to take the lead yourselves—whether that means creating the ceremony with family members or having it officiated by a celebrant, clergy, or spiritual guide.
Certainly, this graveside gathering is a cherished opportunity to honor your loved one in a way that resonates most deeply with those who remember them.
Absolutely—this is what makes green burial truly meaningful. Especially because every ceremony is unique. Some families choose to be hands-on, while others prefer to simply observe. Whether you wish to help decorate the grave, carry or gently lower the body, or participate in closing the grave, you’re invited to engage in whatever way feels right for you. Because this deeply meaningful time is different for everyone, you may participate at your own comfort level.
Traditional headstones are not permitted at Potts Mountain. Instead, each pre-need and interred gravesite will be marked with an azimuth stone made from marble quarried right here in Georgia. The stone will serve as an added tool for ensuring you've located your loved one's gravesite.
GPS coordinates, as well as the site number, are provided on each "Certificate of Interment". Additionally, gravesites may be searched online in our Obituary area. Please review our Guidelines for more details.
Amazingly no, because soil acts as an effective natural filter. Organic compounds, including remaining drugs, bind to soil particles and are broken down by microorganisms in the dirt. In fact, the environmental exposure to toxins during daily life often exceeds what a body contributes during decomposition. Research shows that microbial activity reduces many pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, and pathogens to levels safely within environmental standards.
Decomposition rate varies, but in general, the body returns to the earth over months to a few years. Obviously, this process happens much faster than in traditional casket-and-vault burials.
Green burials benefit from a “smell barrier” of 1.5 to 2 feet of soil. Unquestionably, this barrier is more than enough to prevent animals from detecting or rooting into graves. Studies show no reported incidents of wildlife disturbing green burial sites across the country.
Yes, receptions can be arranged at the burial ground. We rent tables and chairs for an outdoor gathering. For indoor event rental, visit The Conservancy at Potts Mountain or The Conservancy in Jasper.
Yes. As Georgia's first dedicated green burial ground on perpetually conserved land, this property is intended to remain a cemetery permanently. The perpetual conservation easement safeguards its protection and preservation for generations to come.
