We're pleased to announce that we have finally received formal permission from the town to begin moving forward again with the cemetery. Thanks to the many, many of you who contacted the Roxbury Selectboard. Your chorus of voices made a difference, and it was inspiring to see how many of you care about the cemetery. It truly is an honor to be building Vermont Forest Cemetery with your support.
We know that you are eager to learn of the opening date. Unfortunately, due to the hold-up with the town and with the general state of COVID related delays we do not have an opening date yet. We know this is disappointing, and we are also disappointed! As soon as we have an opening date we will announce it in a special newsletter.
Please, do not visit the cemetery before we open for visitors. We are in the process of improving access to make it safe for people of all abilities. Until you are able to schedule a visit with us, the cemetery remains closed to the public. We ask this for your safety and out of respect for the land.
Michelle's beloved dog, Malachi, died in May. Mal was an extraordinary German Shepherd who loved the woods and water in his 12 rich years. She and her husband Paul buried him on their five acres of land just below the cemetery, right next to where they themselves will someday be buried. Michelle says being able to "give his body back to the land where sticks come from" was such a gift and only furthers her resolve to make natural burial an accessible option for all Vermonters- and their pets.
