Transforming Cemeteries: A Framework for Enhancing Ecosystem Processes and Human Uses In Formerly Rural, Urban Cemeteries.
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Date
2016
Authors
Tromp van Holst, Katherine
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to document
the operational elements used to effectively
adapt formerly rural, urban cemeteries into
more multi-functional urban open spaces, with
expanded ecosystem and passive recreation
functions. The goal is to create a transferable
framework to guide the process of adaptation of
these cemeteries into community open spaces
that support ecosystem processes. This project
has two motivations: 1) the urban planning
problems of inadequate quantities of public open
spaces in some cities, and 2) some planners and
property owners viewing formerly rural, now
urban cemeteries as liabilities due to a lack of
perpetual care or the occurrence of anti-social
activities.
The method documents the successful adaptation
of Eugene Masonic Cemetery, and compares and
contrasts it with the Eugene Pioneer Cemetery.
Findings show how the Eugene Masonic Cemetery
site was transformed from an underused
liability to a well-loved community open space,
and what elements of its adaptation can be
included in a broadly transferable framework
to help other communities reach similar goals.
Specifically, the research shows how, through
sociocultural and biophysical interventions,
exotic invasive plant species were replaced with
a robust native shrub layer, and how this process
improved the cemetery’s appeal and the perception
of care within the adjacent community.
The processes used to transform the Eugene
Masonic Cemetery, and those used maintain and
manage the Eugene Pioneer Cemetery, inform
the framework for urban cemetery adaptation.
This transferable framework can guide managers
through the processes of evaluating sociocultural
and biophysical conditions, determining
desired future conditions, and determining how
to progress from the present to desired future
conditions through the collaborative creation and
implementation of a management plan.
Description
88 pages. Examining committee chair: David Hulse
Keywords
Cemeteries, Native plants, Urban planning, Adaptive reuse, Rural cemetery movement, Passive recreation, Ecosystem function