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Honoring Life Earth & Legacy

Nestled in the serene foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Frederick, Maryland, Morris Orchard is more than just a natural burial site—it's a sanctuary of peace, renewal, and connection. Our historic nut orchard has become a sacred space where life and legacy comes full circle. At Morris Orchard, you or your loved one may be returned to the earth without chemicals or precious materials in a natural state.

Make your last act one that gives back to the earth and supports the future of this earth we all cherish.

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what we offer

what is
natural burial?

Natural burial, often used interchangeably with green burial, emphasizes environmentally sustainable practices in the burial process. It typically involves the following key features:

Biodegradable Materials: The body is placed in a biodegradable coffin, shroud, or simply wrapped in a natural fabric. These materials break down over time without harming the environment.

No Embalming: Green burials avoid the use of embalming fluids, which can contain harmful chemicals. This allows for a more natural decomposition process.

Natural Sites: Green burials often take place in natural burial grounds, which may be located in forests, meadows, or conservation areas. These sites are designed to promote biodiversity and often integrate with the local ecosystem.

Minimal Markers: Instead of traditional headstones, many green burial sites encourage the use of simple markers made from local stone or native plants to minimize environmental impact.

Conservation Focus: Some green burial grounds are dedicated to conservation efforts, helping to protect and restore natural habitats.

Overall, green burial seeks to honor the deceased while respecting and preserving the environment, making it a compassionate choice for many.

what is
natural burial?

Natural burial, often used interchangeably with green burial, emphasizes environmentally sustainable practices in the burial process. It typically involves the following key features:

Biodegradable Materials: The body is placed in a biodegradable coffin, shroud, or simply wrapped in a natural fabric. These materials break down over time without harming the environment.

No Embalming: Green burials avoid the use of embalming fluids, which can contain harmful chemicals. This allows for a more natural decomposition process.

Natural Sites: Green burials often take place in natural burial grounds, which may be located in forests, meadows, or conservation areas. These sites are designed to promote biodiversity and often integrate with the local ecosystem.

Minimal Markers: Instead of traditional headstones, many green burial sites encourage the use of simple markers made from natural materials or native plants to minimize environmental impact.

Conservation Focus: Some green burial grounds are dedicated to conservation efforts, helping to protect and restore natural habitats.

Overall, green burial seeks to honor the deceased while respecting and preserving the environment, making it a compassionate choice for many.

the morris
orchard experience

Natural burial at Morris Orchard is about slowing down and being fully present in the process of saying goodbye. Here, there are no hurried goodbyes—only time to reflect, grieve, and find closure in the natural rhythm of life. We preserve the environment by using simple native stone markers, ensuring the land remains as beautiful and untouched as it has always been. It’s also a gathering place, where friends and family come to walk the land, visit grave spaces, share memories, and celebrate life year-round on their own or at our many public events, including our annual memorial chestnut roast.

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what to expect

At Morris Orchard, we are committed to preserving the beauty of the land while offering a meaningful way to honor the lives of those who have passed. Our natural burial practices are designed to minimize environmental impact, support healthy ecosystems, and provide a lasting legacy of care for future generations.

more about our offerings

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Events at Morris Orchard are held throughout the year to gather our community and celebrate their loved ones. Events are open to the public for those interested in learning more about Morris Orchard and green burial.

Morris Orchard Natural Burial Tour

November 16th, 2024
2-4pm

Winter Solstice at morris orchard

December 21st, 2024
3-6pm

Embracing Green Burial

February 4, 2025
12-1 PM

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