cemeteries as parks/open space
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Although cemeteries today are often viewed as strictly a repository for the
dead, they have traditionally also been used as a public park. The historic
relationship for cemeteries and open space is quite strong, and Evergreen
Cemetery is a great example of this relationship. An extensive network of
country lanes, paved roads, wooded trials and greenscapes invite the exploration
of the cemetery on bike, foot and cross-country ski. At the far end of the
developed cemetery, the ponds are a favorite spot for picnics. As the largest
open space in Portland, the cemetery attracts a rich variety of avian life.
Maine Audubon utilizes Evergreen Cemetery and its undeveloped woods for annual
bird watching excursions.
Cemetery grounds are open from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm each day, except for November
to April when they close at 4:30pm. Utilizing Cemeteries for quiet recreation is
encouraged by the City of Portland; however, we request your respectful
consideration and use:
- Limit recreational use to walking, x-country skiing, and jogging.
- Please take ball, Frisbee, and other games to another park location
- Leave flowers, trees, and other plants for enjoyment of others
- Carry-in, carry-out trash
- In active cemeteries, such as Evergreen and Forest City, please be mindful
of funeral services. Quietly and respectfully conduct your leisure in another
part of the cemetery grounds.
- Treat gravestones with care and encourage children to do so as well, many
are quite old and fragile.
- Dogs are prohibited in Western Cemetery, and Eastern Cemetery. Dogs are
allowed in Evergreen and Forest City Cemeteries on a 25’ leash. Please respect
graves and gravestones when walking pets. Scoop after your pet and carry out
bagged waste.
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