Open house on Utah’s first possible dedicated ‘green burial’ cemetery Aug. 14

The possible site of a conservation sanctuary cemetery along Pinion Lane in Oakley. Photo: Summit Land Conservancy

The conservation sanctuary cemetery would sit on approximately 20 acres of city-owned land along Pinion Lane in Oakley

OAKLEY, Utah — Oakley City and Summit Land Conservancy are inviting the community to learn about the potential establishment of a conservation sanctuary cemetery in Summit County, which could be the first in Utah.

An open house and Q&A session on the possible “green burial” cemetery will take place Wednesday, Aug. 14, from 5:30-6:45 p.m. at Oakley City Hall, located at 960 West Center Street.

This event is not a public hearing, but rather an opportunity for residents to gain a deeper understanding of conservation burials—also known as green or natural burials—and their impact on both the environment and the community.

According to the Summit Land Conservancy, conservation burials offer several environmental advantages when compared to traditional burials, and can be more cost effective.

“Conservation burials can help reduce carbon emissions, protect natural habitats, and conserve natural resources,” said the Summit Land Conservancy. “They can also be safer for the environment by avoiding embalming and concrete vaults, which can release toxic chemicals into the soil.”

The Oakley City Council will not take action or hear formal opinions on the conservation sanctuary cemetery during its Aug. 14 meeting.