Since the formation of the Maine Veteran Cemetery System, we at the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services have remained committed to the preservation of our veterans’ legacies as well as the historical integrity of the System’s four state-run veteran cemeteries. From the time of our first burial in 1970 to today’s services, we have ensured our veterans are honored and memorialized in the most respectful and worthy manner possible.

In the course of fifty years, much has changed in regard to the way MBVS manages, maintains and plans interment of our State’s veterans. The Maine Veteran Cemetery System is proposing its newest change to the System - offering “Green Burials” to veterans and their spouses and dependents.

While the offering will be new to veterans who wish to be buried in our state-operated cemeteries, the concept of green burials is nothing new. For thousands of years, populations around the world have buried their loved ones while at the same time preserving the natural landscape of the area. Pikes Peak National Cemetery located in Colorado Springs, will begin interring veterans via green burials in October of 2018.

Green burials require: the use of non-toxic and biodegradable caskets, shrouds and urns; foregoing the use of metal and concrete burial vaults; and the sanitation and preservation of a decedent without the use of toxic chemicals. The use of pesticides and fertilizers are prohibited on the grounds of green burial sites, and monuments/upright headstones are banned, as they negatively impact the landscape.

As the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services prepares to offer green burial services to Maine veterans, we want to hear from you! Below is a short survey that will provide the Bureau with the necessary information to successfully implement the roll-out of this new potential option.

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* 1. As a veteran, how likely are you to choose a green burial in the Maine Veteran Cemetery System?

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* 2. As a family member of a veteran, how likely are you to choose a green burial in the Maine Veteran Cemetery System?

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* 3. Across the country, veteran cemeteries memorialize our heroes with monuments and flat/upright markers. Green burial sites do not permit the use of upright markers. Do you feel green burial sites will adequately honor the service and sacrifice of our service members?

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* 4. Green burial sites are located in an area with native trees, shrubs and flowers, with no man-made additions. Discontinued use of pesticides may lead to eventual overgrowth leading to a "meadow-like" setting. Do you believe possible overgrowth is disrespectful to interred veterans?

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* 5. Green burials require significantly less money than traditional burial practices, reducing overall costs for surviving family members. Green burials also have less of an impact on the environment. Knowing the potential economic and environmental impact green burials may have, would you be more likely to choose a green burial?

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* 6. The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services would like to hear your questions, comments and concerns about a possible green burial site. Please share with us your thoughts on green burials.

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