Larkspur Conservation hike caps off Make a Will Month

Alumni enjoy a unique engagement opportunity focused on estate planning and connecting with others in the PDS/USN community.
By Meagan Hall, Annual Fund Associate

The Alumni & Development Office participated in Make a Will Month in August by offering a variety of estate planning resources to alumni. As part of this initiative, the office organized a hike at Larkspur Conservation, Tennessee’s first nature preserve for natural burial.

Larkspur Conservation has revived the natural burial practices that were prevalent in America before the 1860s and only natural, biodegradable materials are used on the grounds. Each grave is marked with a small metal disk and an optional engraved natural stone marker to minimize the visual impact on the land. Environmental stewardship and conservation are second only to providing a meaningful and healing experience for families as they say goodbye to a loved one.

The family of PDS/USN Alumni Board Member & Former Faculty Karen Ward Knox '66 played a part in the creation of Larkspur. Knox’s father, Russell Ward owned the farm located in Westmoreland, Tenn. After his death, Knox’s family donated the land to become Larkspur Conservation. Today, neighbors hike, birdwatch, study nature, and connect with death in new ways in a living space.

Larkspur Conservation's Assistant Director David Ponoroff led the hike through wooded groves and wildflower-filled meadows. He shared the land’s history, answered questions about natural burial, and discussed the short and long-term conservation efforts for the land. As participants walked, it was easy to see how such a serene place would bring comfort to visiting families and friends.

Alumni interested in participating in other unique engagement opportunities or learning more about estate planning can email Annual Fund Associate Meagan Hall.
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