Protecting
our Forests
Our multi-level approach to preserving forests and ongoing access.
protecting our forests
How This Works
Step One
Finding and purchasing a Better Place Forests location
When identifying the land we want to protect, we look for land with high conservation value—natural, scenic, or historic spaces that provide vital wildlife habitat and face development threats.
Our forests are carefully chosen for their health, accessibility, and ability to offer both reflection and joyful connection. By preserving these spaces, we create a lasting sanctuary for wildlife and people.
Better Place Forests’ Forests locations are fully owned and operated by the nonprofit organization.
Step Two
Developing Forest Management Plans
We work with local forest experts, officials, and communities to develop forest management plans that support healthy, long-lasting ecosystems.
Our approach prioritizes best practices based on local needs, such as wildfire mitigation, habitat conservation, and supporting native species to thrive.
Step Three
Obtaining Local Permits
Fun fact: We are the first in America to protect land in this unique way!
We engage local communities and obtain land use permits from local jurisdictions, typically county governments.
These permits authorize Better Place Forests to operate a conservation Memorial Forest on the particular property indefinitely.
Step four
Granting and recording irrevocable licenses
Ensuring our customers have ongoing access to their Memorial Forest is a top priority for our nonprofit.
Each Better Place family is granted an irrevocable license granting them the perpetual right to access their Memorial Tree and spread ashes.
To reinforce these irrevocable rights, we record a license or easement with local governments. Our goal is to ensure that any potential future owner would be legally obligated to honor customers’ rights to access the forest and spread ashes.
Step Five
Maintaining stewardship trust
We want to ensure there are funds for the perpetual care of these forests. A percentage of funds from each Memorial Tree is directed to a “stewardship trust.”
We have partnered with ClearPoint Federal Bank and Trust as our trustee. They are one of the nation’s leading providers of trust management services, with more than 2,000 clients in the end of life space (funeral homes and cemeteries) and more than $1 billion held in trust.
These funds are legally protected, built over time, and can only be spent on forest care, maintenance, and access.
Stay connected
in nature
Talk to a Guide to learn more about our nonprofit’s multi-layered approach to preserving forests and ensuring perpetual access for families.
