Events and Celebrations — a Greensprings update

“The beautiful spring came; and when Nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also.” - Harriet Ann Jacobs

Serviceberry in the springtime.

Welcome, spring! Welcome bobolinks, kestrels, and bluebirds, exploring and making their homes throughout the Greensprings meadows! These signs of change have us putting away the snow plow and dusting off the mower; changing out the winter woolens for baseball caps and rain boots.

And as we gladly move into this new season, we also reflect on our wintertime activities. From January through March, Greensprings staff and volunteers supported 11 burials - in all the weather. We held two events in the community, offering opportunities for Q&A about natural burial, and held our annual board and staff retreat to connect, reflect, and support each other in our work. Please read on for upcoming events at the cemetery and beyond. May this find you well!

A 2026 winter burial at Greensprings.

April 25 —Talking About Death Won’t Kill You

Hosted by a collaboration of local organizations, this event will help you develop the practical know-how needed to plan well for the end of life. The format is open, so drop by for a few minutes or stay for a few hours.

April 26 — 3rd Annual Caring for Your Cemetery Day

Sunday, April 26, 10am to 2pm

Meet at Greensprings main parking lot

rsvp: info@naturalburial.org

Steep yourself in the sights and sounds of spring while working with Greensprings staff, board, and volunteers to mulch, plant, clean, and more. We’ll provide tools, bags, and gloves, but feel free to bring your own.

May 6 — The Garden Club is back!

Beginning Wednesday, May 6, join us every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month (through October). Drop-in and lend a hand at our nursery and demo gardens, Remembrance Grove, or Reflection Pond. Volunteers are led by staff. Work varies and can be tailored to abilities and experience. Bring your sunhat and water bottle!

May 16 — Annual Cayuga Bird Club Hike

Saturday, May 16, 7am to 12pm.

Meet at Greensprings main parking lot (293 Irish Hill Road, Newfield)

Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LkQiS1HucpEajweN8

Trip Leaders: Steve Kress, etc.

Space is limited. Email info@naturalburial.org to register by May 1st.

Greensprings has excellent habitat for migratory birds at this time of year, including field birds such as Bobolinks and Field Sparrows. We'll also go into the Arnot Forest, which has many thrushes, warblers, vireos, and other returning songbirds at this time of year. Bring a snack and something to drink and dress for the weather. Waterproof boots may be helpful.

May 28 — Greensprings Joins the Ithaca Festival Parade (again)!

Thursday, May 28, 6pm

Cayuga St in Ithaca

We took a 16-year break, but we’re back! Dressed as butterflies and bees and surrounded by native plants and birdsong we’re walking to remind folks that we can all give back to nature, in life and in death. If you’re interested in walking with us, please reach out!

June 27 — Greensprings 20th Anniversary Annual Meeting — SAVE THE DATE!

Saturday, June 27, 11am to 1pm

Greensprings main parking area

Come celebrate 20 years of natural burial! Connect with friends, visit loved ones, stroll to the Remembrance Grove, Wind Phone or Leopold Overlook and get the latest Greensprings news!

Dish-to-pass lunch starts at 11am. Official meeting including Board of Trustees elections, and annual report begins at noon. Andy Zepp, Executive Director of the Finger Lakes Land Trust, will be our keynote speaker.

All site owners, staff, volunteers, and friends are encouraged to attend. Tours will be available after the meeting.

Rain date will be Sunday, June 28th from 11am - 1pm

Support the nature preserve! Maintaing walking trails, managing invasives, and improving our meadows is a big effort. Please consider becoming a sustaining member to support this important work, allowing us to keep our fees accessible.

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