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Sanbornton trustees weigh green-burial option amid soil, drainage concerns
Summary
At their May 20 meeting the Sanbornton Cemetery Trustees heard a public request for green burials and discussed whether to allow them townwide or in a designated area; trustees cited clay soils, seasonal wetness and a 10-foot topographic decline that may affect suitability and said further review is needed.
The Sanbornton Cemetery Trustees discussed whether to allow green burials in town cemeteries after a member of the public asked about the option during public comment at their May 20 meeting.
"I am interested in eventually purchasing a cemetery plot but would prefer a green burial option if one becomes available," said Ginny Blackmer, who attended to inquire about the status of green-burial discussions. Trustees said the topic had been raised at prior meetings and that they are considering either permitting green burials townwide or creating a separate designated area, possibly adjacent to the cremains section.
Trustees raised technical concerns they said could affect the feasibility of green burials in the town cemetery, including areas of clay soil, seasonal wetness and slope. They referenced a recent survey by Bailey and Associates that showed a 10-foot decline in topography across the parcel and said those conditions may require additional review of New Hampshire state guidance and the practices of other cemeteries.
The trustees also discussed whether implementing green burials would require broader public input or approval at Town Meeting. No formal policy change or vote was taken; the discussion concluded with trustees noting the issue remains under consideration and that further review is needed.
