Natural Burials and the Farley Center

October 14, 2026

Maggie Balistreri, Cemetery Assistant

What if the final chapter of life could nurture the earth rather than simply occupy it? Natural—or “green”—burial offers an environmentally conscious alternative to conventional funeral practices, emphasizing simplicity, conservation, and a return to natural cycles. Maggie Balistreri will explore the history of Natural Path Sanctuary at the Farley Center, one of Wisconsin’s first natural burial grounds, and how its vision has helped create a place where conservation, community, and end-of-life care come together. After two short videos, most of the session will be Q&A.

 You’ll learn:

• how a green burial differs from conventional burial and cremation
• the environmental benefits of natural burial, including conservation and reduced resource use
• the history and vision of Natural Path Sanctuary and its connection to the Farley Center
• what to expect when planning a green burial—from biodegradable caskets and shrouds to natural burial grounds
• practical and personal considerations for exploring green burial as an end-of-life choice