November 10, 2025

Embracing the Cycle of Life Through Green Burials with Herland Cemetery

40 minutes

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Walt Patrick from Harlan Forest, a groundbreaking nonprofit in Washington state that offers eco-friendly death care services. Walt takes us through the history of Herland Forest, from its roots as a Vietnam War protest to its pioneering role as the first licensed human composting facility in the United States. We explore how Harlan Forest navigates the profit-driven death care industry while maintaining a nonprofit ethos, focusing on affordable services and the importance of a compassionate approach to end-of-life care.

Explore the transformative world of alternative death care practices with us, as we discuss the rising interest in death doulas and natural burials that offer a personal, meaningful, and less commercialized approach to saying goodbye to loved ones. Walt shares inspiring stories of how Harlan Forest honors unique burial requests, such as laying pets to rest alongside their owners, and creative efforts to personalize burial arrangements. Discover how the use of wood chips and other eco-friendly techniques fosters natural decomposition and celebrates life and renewal within these sacred spaces.

Our journey leads us to the Windward Education and Research Center, where holistic living and community support create a sustainable and egalitarian environment. From natural organic reduction services to energy solutions and community living, we delve into how these efforts support individuals through life's challenges. We reflect on the impact of visiting natural burial sites, where the timeless connection between nature and community is fostered, and anticipate the potential growth of these compassionate, environmentally conscious cemeteries.

Check out their work at: https://herlandforest.org/

For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org

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Key Words:

Eco-friendly Death Care, Harlan Forest, Nonprofit, Washington State, Human Composting, Vietnam War Protest, Licensed Cemetery, Natural Burial, Death Doulas, Alternative Death Care, Personalized Burial Arrangements, Wood Chips, Eco-friendly Techniques, Windward Education and Research Center, Holistic Living, Community Support, Sustainable, Egalitarian, Natural Organic Reduction, Crisis Management, Community Living, Haudenosaunee Confederation, Leadership, Collaboration, Community Engagement, Personal Development, Nature, Community Connection, Cemetery Concept

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