How It Works
You can pre-purchase your green burial plot and services, however, Aurora Gardens plots are arranged to be used sequentially in a manner that works with the natural character and terrain of the site. This means that the specific plot is assigned by the City of Edmonton only when a death has occurred and according to the sequential use plan. Families will be provided GPS coordinates of the plot location at the time the burial ceremony is scheduled to place.
For every burial, a permanent record of all pertinent details, including the precise location, is created and this record is maintained, as required by law, in perpetuity at the Cemetery office.
On recent graves, leaf mulch or natural wood chips are used to suppress grass, invasive plant species and weeds from establishing themselves before the memorial plantings are made. This cover contributes organic material to the soil and eventually breaks down.
The goal is to always maintain Aurora Gardens areas in as natural a state as possible; it is nonetheless necessary for the site to be managed and kept accessible, especially during the operational phase. Groundcover will be trimmed from time to time and weed control will be carried out periodically to ensure that trees and plantings can flourish.
Customers are requested to walk only on the paths in areas a burial/interment has taken place to avoid disturbing the plant life and avoid concerns of uneven grounds and to pay respect to those that have been departed.
When fully utilized, access into Aurora Gardens will be along a walking path. A few small clearings with seating will be maintained for visiting and quiet contemplation in a secluded setting.