Terramation

Terramation, also known as natural organic reduction, is a gentle, environmentally conscious alternative to traditional burial or cremation. This natural process returns the body to the earth, creating nutrient-rich soil that supports new life.


Have questions? Our compassionate team is here to help you understand your options and determine if terramation is right for your family.

Three Benefits to Terramation

Nourish the Land

With the soil created during the terramation process, your passing gives back to the Earth. The life-giving, nutrient-rich soil can revitalize forested areas, enrich gardens, and help maintain healthy ecosystems.

Protect the Earth

By choosing terramation, you ensure that your funeral wishes are focused on protecting the Earth. That means no harmful chemicals, fewer emissions, and a low carbon footprint.

Protect the Earth

By choosing terramation, you ensure that your funeral wishes are focused on protecting the Earth. That means no harmful chemicals, fewer emissions, and a low carbon footprint.

Say Goodbye Your Way

Throughout the terramation process, you can add personalized, meaningful touches that are tailored to you. From including a ceremony to selecting memorial options, you can say a green goodbye your way.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is terramation?

    Terramation, also known as natural organic reduction, is a gentle process that transforms the body into nutrient-rich soil using natural materials such as straw, alfalfa, and sawdust. Over several weeks, naturally occurring microbes break down the body in a controlled environment. Once the process is complete, the soil is returned to the family or placed in a location of their choosing, where permitted.

  • How does the terramation process work?

    The process begins by placing the body in a vessel with natural organic materials like straw, alfalfa, and sawdust. Oxygen is introduced to support naturally occurring microbes, which naturally transform the body into soil over several weeks. Afterward, the soil is screened, allowed to rest, and then prepared to be returned to the family.

  • Can I still have a funeral or memorial service with terramation?

    Yes. Choosing terramation does not limit your options for honoring a loved one. Families can still hold a visitation, funeral service, memorial service, or celebration of life before or after the terramation process, just as they would with other forms of disposition.

  • Can I preplan for terramation?

    Yes. If you're interested in choosing terramation as part of your end-of-life plans, our compassionate team can help you document your wishes and answer any questions you may have.

  • Is terramation available in Minnesota and Wisconsin?

    Terramation is legal in Minnesota, which legalized natural organic reduction in 2024. It is not currently legal in Wisconsin; however, we can assist Wisconsin families with transporting their loved one to Return Home, a Washington-based firm specializing in terramation. Return Home was recognized by the National Funeral Directors Association in both 2022 and 2024 with the “Best of the Best” award and is a licensed facility that meets or exceeds all state standards.

How Would You Like to Honor a Life?

Every family is unique, and every life deserves to be remembered in a personal way. Whether you choose burial, cremation, water cremation, or terramation, we're here to help you create a meaningful service that reflects your loved one's life, values, and wishes.