Portsmouth city councilors have directed staff to study using city-owned land for green or natural burials, the Portsmouth Herald reported in coverage republished by NHPR Oct. 12. Staff were also asked to recommend funding in a future capital improvement plan, the city's long-term budget for major projects.
Councilors unanimously supported the motion from Andrew Bagley and Kate Cook. Cook had described the city's remaining burial space as extremely limited, while Bagley said cemeteries were either full or reserved for particular religious groups.
Natural or green burial generally avoids embalming fluids, chemicals used to preserve bodies, and permanent outer burial containers, using materials that break down naturally. The report did not identify a site for Portsmouth's proposal.
New Hampshire law requires municipalities to provide suitable cemeteries or arrange for them through agreements with neighboring municipalities or nonprofit entities, according to the statute cited in the report. Bagley said Portsmouth is at risk of falling out of compliance with that law.
Sources
Jeff McMenemy, Portsmouth Herald, republished by NHPR Oct. 12, 2026