Better Place Forests – Memorial Trees in Protected Forests
Eco-friendly, meaningful alternatives to traditional burial.
For families who want a greener, more meaningful alternative to cemeteries, Better Place Forests provides the chance to create a living legacy. Instead of headstones, loved ones are memorialized by a tree in one of America’s protected forests. Ashes are gently returned to the earth beneath the tree, marked with a custom memorial, while the forest itself is preserved for generations to come.
Memorial Trees Across the U.S.
Better Place Forests has established memorial forests nationwide, including:
- California: Point Arena, Santa Cruz, Yosemite Gateway, Lake Arrowhead
- Southwest: Flagstaff, AZ
- Midwest: Rock River, IL; St. Croix Valley, MN
- Northeast: Berkshires, MA; Litchfield Hills, CT
Families can select the forest that feels most meaningful—whether near home, or in a place of natural beauty.
Personalized, Eco-Friendly Memorials
Every memorial tree includes:
- A custom engraved marker placed at the tree
- The option for individual or companion trees
- Professional guidance in choosing the right tree and location
- Support for scattering ashes during a memorial ceremony
- Ongoing forest conservation and maintenance
This eco-conscious choice provides peace of mind, sustainability, and a serene place for family visits.
Why Families Choose Better Place Forests
- A natural alternative to traditional cemeteries
- Eco-friendly and conservation-focused memorials
- Protected forests preserved for generations
- Custom memorial markers included
- Serene spaces for reflection and family gatherings
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a legal alternative to traditional burial?
Yes. Memorial tree ceremonies and ash burials are fully legal and coordinated within the protected forest.
Can more than one person be memorialized at the same tree?
Yes. Families can choose companion trees or shared memorial trees for loved ones.
How do family members visit the memorial tree?
Each forest provides access paths, guided visits, and dedicated spaces for reflection at the chosen site.
