SOLVE planning cleanup of Oregon's historic cemeteries in 2025
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – The environmental organization SOLVE is offering resources for historic Oregon cemeteries looking to beautify their grounds in 2025.
SOLVE and the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries are organizing volunteer cleanups for the 2025 Oregon Historic Cemetery Cleanup event. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Historic Cemeteries Coordinator Kuri Gill is encouraging cemetery caretakers to sign up for the events.
“Oregon’s historic cemeteries are sites of great cultural value,” Gill said. “They face many challenges including litter, over-growth of invasive species like thistle and ivy, moss-covered monuments and general neglect. SOLVE’s effort is a great benefit to the cemeteries and their caretakers.”
Historic cemetery caretakers can register their properties for the cleanups by contacting Solve Oregon. People interested in volunteering for a local cemetery cleanup can sign up in April and May through the SOLVE website.
SOLVE will provide the following resources for cemeteries registered for the event:
- Free supplies like litter bags, gloves, safety vests and first aid kits
- Volunteer recruitment tools including event flyer templates, promotion and online registration
- Liability coverage and waivers
- Funding options for tools, plants, and disposal costs
- Advice on native plant species to plant for lower maintenance
- Project planning assistance