Landscape Preservation Training in Natchitoches

[Debbie Smith]

Final preparations are underway for the Cemetery Landscape Preservation Workshop presented by the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training (NCPTT) and hosted by the American Cemetery Association. The hands-on workshop will take place September 16-17 in American Cemetery. Six instructors experienced in historic preservation and heirloom plants will guide participants through the basics of maintaining historic cemetery vegetation. Topics will include maintaining historic cemetery character, botanical symbolism, identifying hazardous trees, proper pruning techniques, and removal of invasive vegetation and stumps. The class roster includes participants from nine states with experience ranging from cemetery managers to volunteers. Among the participants are Natchitoches Preservation Network members Julie Ernstein and ElizaBeth Guin.