HIGHER GROUND MEADOW
Natural Burial
Because this is a natural wildflower meadow we wish to retain it. Over the years very many of these types of pastures have been lost, mostly due to the pressures of agriculture. The need for farms to be more productive has resulted in this type of grassland being sprayed with herbicide and the land re-seeded with modern vigorous grasses, wildflowers are unable to compete with these. Fortunately our meadow remained untouched, and many Dorset notable varieties can be found.
Most of the graves at Higher Ground Meadow will be in this rich patchwork of colour. Marking these graves with a tree is not possible as in time the tree canopy would create too much shade for the survival of the wild flowers. The way to ensure they remain is to continue the same management by allowing the pasture to grow and then take an annual cut of hay. The re-growth of grass is then kept in check by grazing with our sheep.
Marking these graves is something we have given a lot of thought to, all graves will be legally identified by an electronic chip just below the surface, and a full record kept. It is our belief that many families will wish to visit the graves of their loved ones and so will need to locate it without having to use the electronic reader.
We offer the option of a tablet of oak placed flush with the ground surface into this will be recessed a brass name plate of the deceased. We feel this strikes an acceptable balance and helps to keep the natural appearance of the area. It must be borne in mind that at certain times of the year, before the hay cut these markers will be hidden.
Woodland Burials
MEADOW BURIAL
