We have news! | Update on Michigan Green Burial
Earlier this week, we closed on a beautiful 20 acre property in Newaygo County. We are thrilled, and excited to tell you more about the property and our next steps.
Here are photos of our first walk on the property. In the last photo, you can see our itty bitty car in the distance - it is everything 0.25 miles to the left between the camera and the car.
About The Forest
The 20 acre forest is fully wooded, and surrounded by wooded lots on all sides. It consists primarily of white oak and white pine, similar to what existed there in the early 1800s. Though Michigan was extensively logged, we estimate that many of the white pines on the property are at least 100 years old. We are committed to learning more about the history of this land and its people.
The property is easily accessible and flat. It is located in Brooks Township (Newaygo County), 38 miles north of downtown Grand Rapids. It is reachable by driving north on Alpine/M-37 or 131-N. It takes about 50 minutes to get there.
The forest is within the bounds of the Manistee National Forest, with nearby access to the North Country Trail. It is right around the corner from Karner Blue Nature Sanctuary, and a few minutes down the road from a county campground with access to the Muskegon River (much of which is protected in this area). Coolbough Natural Areas, Newaygo Prairie Nature Sanctuary, Croton Dam, and downtown Newaygo are also only a few minutes away.
Not only is the area a great place to visit, but also, establishing the burial forest here will contribute to the mosaic of already protected lands in this ecologically important area. The greater the space and connectivity, the greater the overall environmental impact.
The Next Steps
We have an initial meeting with the Township Planning Commission on February 14, 2022 to introduce the concept of our business. We hope to come away from that meeting knowing everything we will need apply for a special use permit and a timeframe for presenting at a public hearing. If the special use permit is approved, then we can proceed with licensing with the Michigan Cemetery Commission which includes setting up the $50,000 endowment trust. Next, we will pursue green burial certification, which is not necessary for functioning, but is important to us.
We are hopeful that most of this will happen in 2022.
About The Endowment
Since 2009, cemeteries in Michigan require a $50,000 irrevocable endowment and perpetual care trust to be set up before plots can be sold or burials can take place. This ensures that all commitments to managing the property and providing burial services can be honored in perpetuity.
How can you be involved?
Knowing of your support for the conservation burial grounds will be instrumental in obtaining permits and establishing the burial forest in West Michigan. Below, you have the opportunity to join the waitlist.
Warmly,
Peter and Annica Quakenbush