Memorial Landscapes 

In keeping with Bluestem’s guiding principles, memorials to loved ones are modest, natural, and respectful. Gravestones are native stone and lie flat to the ground. The purchase of a plot includes the selection of a gravestone from stones found during our restoration work at Bluestem or from North Carolina stone that we keep onsite. Families are responsible for engraving the stone which is performed offsite. Families are then invited to return to Bluestem to lay the gravestone at the grave. Offsite stone or polished granite headstones are not allowed.

Individuals and families may also choose to “leave no trace” and rely instead on the Bluestem marker that will be centered in every grave. This is a brass pin similar to a survey pin that records the individual's name, dates, GPS coordinates, and tracked through Bluestem's record-keeping system.  

Remembering Loved Ones  

Returning family and friends can locate their loved one’s gravesite or, as importantly, they can experience the fullness of the entire nature preserve in honor of their loved one’s memory. 

Memorial plantings on or beside gravesites is encouraged; however, they must be made in concert with Bluestem staff, and be in keeping with Bluestem's land restoration and stewardship plans. We are currently engaged in a landscape wide inventory of existing plants, shrubs and trees, and developing a list of approved native plants for future consideration. Contact us if you would like to make a donation towards this effort in the name of your loved one. 

Bluestem Cemetery Rules and Guidelines