By Paige Jones
Special to the Herald Times
MEEKER | In the last few years cremations have become more popular at cemeteries around the states. The Highland Cemetery in Meeker recently revamped the cremains garden, switching from gravel to concrete walkways.
This improvement has reduced maintenance for the cemetery staff. On top of having a nicer look, it is easier to keep the concrete weed free and will be easier to plow in the winter. The new sidewalks provide better access for the elderly and disabled. The new concrete is a win for everyone.
The benches next to the waterfall provide a nice place to sit and read a book or spend some quiet time alone, unless it is mowing day.
“I think it looks really nice up here. I am planning on putting more plants around the fountain and we are planning on adding easier to take care of plants around the new concrete. The concrete will allow us to not have to worry about those little hard to pull out weeds that we have seen up here for years,” said Mike Jones, cemetery manager.
Jones arranged with county surveyor Leif Joy to use the county’s drone to do an aerial picture of the cemetery at no charge to the district.
One topic of discussion at the cemetery board meeting last week, was whether to stain the concrete. Board members had differing opinions on the staining and sealing of the concrete.
The board also had questions about weed-eating and mulching, the cost of cleaning the veterans’ statue and questioned the need for staff overtime. They continued a discussion about allowing people to walk their dogs in the cemetery.
The next cemetery district meeting is July 5 at 7 p.m. Meetings are open to the public.
