Summary

This ecologically diverse site offers potential for a range of experiences for visitors. Analyses suggest that the meadow is the most suitable location for a green burial ground. However, the meadow has some constraints, such as wet soils and legal requirements, that will shape design alternatives.

Assets

The meadow offers easy access from Colrain Shelburne Road, which links to major roads such as Route 2 and Interstate 91.

Because the meadow is flatter than most of the rest of the site, it is most likely to contain areas with a slope of less than 33%, which are suitable for graves.

Beautiful views of mountains to the northeast are visible from the north meadow.

The meadow is sunny and open, creating a pleasant environment for gatherings even on cold days.

Shady areas are available on the west, south, and east sides of the meadow.

Limiting burials to the meadow would preserve the wetland and most of the forest as wildlife habitat and minimize changes required to the Chapter 61 management plan.

Restricting the number of burials within the forest would also protect trees that may otherwise need to be removed or would be at risk of root damage from grave digging.

Constraints

Wetland and well buffers cover almost the entire meadow, limiting the legally available space for graves to 2 acres.

Topsoil may be too shallow or too rocky for burial in some areas. Rocky soil may be challenging to dig, especially by hand, and shallow soil may not allow for the recommended three feet of soil between the body and the top of the bedrock or the water table.

Bands of slopes found on the meadow with grades of more than 33% are not suitable for burial, as erosion could cause the body to become exposed over time.

Seasonal water flow across the meadow may affect graves by causing bodies to shift or delaying decomposition.

Increased human presence in the meadow, as well as changes in maintenance, such as potentially more frequent mowing, may disturb species of plants or animals that rely on this habitat for breeding or foraging. Increased use could also impact the health of the wetland in the meadow.

Road noise from Colrain Shelburne Road may disrupt visitors’ experience.

Design Considerations

The analyses suggest that a design may be able to meet the clients’ goals of establishing a green burial ground while conserving the ecological value of the site as much as possible. Additional considerations may also shape a green burial ground design. The family would like to create a space that is inclusive and welcoming to all faiths, while maintaining as natural an appearance as possible. Design alternatives, shown on the following sheets, will focus burials and human use in the meadow, while leaving most of the forest and wetland as undisturbed as possible and conforming to legal requirements. Designs will also attempt to create welcoming and meaningful spaces for visitors, both individuals and groups, while maintaining the privacy of the family. The final design takes into consideration the clients’ feedback on the design alternatives. Design details will address issues such as grave density, accessibility for foot and vehicle traffic, methods for digging graves, and the creation of sacred spaces that celebrate those who have passed.