The Maryland Inventory of Cemeteries and Burial Sites Workgroup has released a draft report outlining recommendations to improve how the state documents and preserves cemeteries, burial groups, and related sites. Public feedback is welcome and encouraged to ensure the recommendations reflect the needs of Marylanders. Preservation Maryland was proud to have a representative on the committee, helping ensure that preservation perspectives and community voices were part of the conversation.
About the Draft Report
The draft report covers:
- Definitions: Standardizing terms like cemetery, burial group, and interment across Maryland law.
- Documentation Practices: Evaluating how cemeteries are currently recorded at the county, municipal, and organizational levels.
- Statewide Inventory Recommendations: Proposals for data fields, public search functionality, stewardship responsibilities, and cost estimates for creating a unified inventory.
- Grant Program Recommendations: Guidance for funding local and nonprofit entities to assist in cemetery identification, documentation, and preservation.
How to Provide Feedback
The Workgroup has made it easy for the public to weigh in. Use the comments form to provide input on any part of the report. The form asks for ratings, feedback on clarity, and any additional suggestions.
The public comment period is open through November 14, 2025. After reviewing feedback, the Workgroup will submit the final report to the Governor and General Assembly on December 1, 2025.
Why This Matters
Public engagement ensures that the statewide cemetery inventory and preservation efforts reflect the voices and needs of local communities, historians, genealogists, and preservation advocates. It also helps guide future funding and policy decisions to better protect Maryland’s historic burial sites.