Frequently asked questions

Green burial returns a body to the earth as simply as possible. There is no toxic embalming and no vault, and the body is placed in a shroud or a simple casket made of natural material, so it can return to the soil.

Yes, when it is done with care. Our soil and environmental studies were completed before any burials. Low, wet areas and drainage swales are kept free of burials, and we do not accept toxic embalming or hazardous medical devices.

It depends on soil, moisture, temperature and the shroud or casket. Natural decomposition is a normal part of how the land renews itself. Because materials break down, moving remains later may be difficult or impossible.

Not yet. Ascend is a registered green cemetery with a conservation-focused approach. A conservation burial ground has a conservation easement held by a land trust. We are working toward one, and we are pursuing Green Burial Council certification. We will share each step when it is complete.

No. Embalming is not required, and refrigeration or dry ice is preferred. If embalming is necessary, for example for travel or a delayed service, only a nontoxic product approved by the Green Burial Council may be used. Remains embalmed with any other product cannot be accepted.

No. Vaults and grave liners are not allowed at Ascend.

Yes. Many families carry the body to the grave, read, sing, or help fill the grave by hand. Our staff prepare the grave and are with you the whole time. For safety, families do not dig full-body graves.

Yes. Cremated remains can be buried in a biodegradable urn or directly in the soil in approved locations, or scattered in designated areas only. One standard space holds one full-body burial and one cremation burial, or two cremation burials.

We welcome families of every faith and none. If your tradition calls for a quick burial, tell us right away. We need 72 hours' notice for most burials and will try hard to meet religious timing needs, though we cannot promise it every time.

Most families do, and we work closely with them. If you are thinking about caring for your loved one without a funeral home, please call us first so we can talk through what Ohio requires.

Most burials can go ahead year round. If the ground is frozen, flooded or unsafe, we may need to move the date. We will work with your funeral director on caring for your loved one in the meantime and keep you informed.

Every grave is recorded in our official cemetery records with GPS location. A flat natural stone marker is optional. We can help you find a grave at any time.

A marker is optional. It must be natural stone or another approved natural material, lie flat with no more than 3 inches above the ground, and be no larger than 216 square inches on top. Every marker is approved ahead of time.

No. Ascend is managed as a natural restoration site, not a mowed lawn. Graves will blend into native grasses, wildflowers and young trees. We may mow, seed or use prescribed fire, which can change how an area looks for a while.

Yes. Ascend is a registered Ohio cemetery, and an endowment care trust funds its long-term care. We are recording a deed restriction and working toward a conservation easement to protect the land for good. We will update this answer when each step is complete.

No. You purchase a burial right, which is the right to be buried in a specific space under our Rules. The land stays part of the cemetery and the natural restoration site.