Fascinated by the natural world from an early age, conservation was a way of life for Jeffrey Ford. He dedicated himself to local conservation efforts including serving as Board President for Bur Oak Land Trust. When he first learned about conservation burial during a presentation at the Unitarian Universalist Society, the idea resonated deeply and the seed for what would eventually become Back to Ground was planted. For several years, Jeffrey worked to build support for the concept. Then, like so many things, progress paused when the pandemic hit in 2020. But seeds are resilient; they can lie dormant, waiting for the right moment to grow.
In 2022, that moment arrived. Becky Hoffbauer, a fellow nature enthusiast with a background in hospice care and death midwifery, joined a land tour with Bur Oak Land Trust. Curious about the possibility of establishing a conservation cemetery in the region, she began asking questions. Her inquiries eventually led her to Jeffrey.
When Becky and Jeffrey met, they quickly discovered a shared vision. They decided to test the waters by sharing information about conservation burial at Prairie Preview, a local environmental education fair. The response was enthusiastic and they left with a list of over 25 people eager to learn more. That once-dormant seed had begun to sprout.
Over the next couple of years, the effort entered its seedling phase when a strong root system is established for stability. Becky and Jeffrey invited other like-minded individuals to join the mission. They gathered in coffee shops and around kitchen tables, building relationships and laying the groundwork for what was to come. The team expanded to include Jenni, Pete, and Jennifer—and later, Michell, Bill, Annie, and Chris.
Today, Back to Ground is in its sapling stage, growing stronger and reaching farther. Now a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we are actively raising funds and searching for the land we will one day steward and protect as a conservation cemetery. We are also shaping the framework and culture that will guide our work for generations to come. The roots are deep and the vision is clear.