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prepared grave site by meadow

An Oregon dedicated natural burial ground

aerial view of Willow-Witt Ranch in the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument

Located within the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument in Southern Oregon

natural burial mound planted with flowers

Offering burial in reciprocity with the living landscape

first snow on green burial site

Reinforcing the vital connection between people and the natural world

natural burial site with first snow

Preserving a unique ecosystem through intentional stewardship in perpetuity

The Forest fall colors

Caring for a unique ecosystem through conservation, regeneration, and education

The Forest Conservation Burial Ground provides a space to reconnect our experience of life and death with land conservation.

We acknowledge that the Shasta, Upland Takelma, Latgawa and Athabaskan peoples stewarded these lands for millennia. We also acknowledge the intergenerational trauma caused by their forcible removal from their ancestral lands. The people whose ancestors lived on this land are now citizens of The Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Indians, The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, or The Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde.

What is Natural or Green Burial?

Natural or green burial is a return to simple, non-toxic burials designed to support the reunion of human bodies with nature.

Where is The Forest Conservation Burial Ground?

We are located within the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument in southern Oregon, just outside of the city of Ashland.

What is Forest Pet Cemetery?

Natural burial of companion animals or cremated remains returns these beloved family members to the earth in simplicity and dignity. 

A Few Things That Make The Forest Special:

  • The Forest supports funeral services and ceremonies that are intimate and personalized.

  • Family and friends are invited to be active participants, not solely attendees. 

  • People of all faiths, identities, and walks of life come together in shared honoring of the experiences we hold together, and shared reverence for the space that holds us.

  • The dedicated natural burial grounds are meant to be shared with the living.

Latest Stories

April 15, 2025
Yesterday seemed to be the warmest day we’ve experienced at the ranch so far this year, nearly 70 degrees.
January 15, 2025
It is truly a gift to gather with our community to celebrate each seasonal turning at the burial ground. Each gathering leaves me feeling more connected to this land and to others who believe in our work. This year we celebrated with folks who were visiting The Forest for the first time and others who have been connected to this place for decades.