Dear Editor,

From the formation of Tarkio Home Cemetery, written rules and regulations were created to protect and preserve the beauty of this lasting memorial for our loved ones. After recent discussions, we would like to update and bring awareness of these policies to all concerned citizens.

The speed limit of all vehicles is not to exceed 10 miles per hour. Driving or parking on any grounds except roadways provided by the cemetery is not allowed. No one is allowed in the cemetery after dark and shall not ever enter the grounds except through the gates. No loud, boisterous or undignified behavior will be tolerated. No alcohol or illegal drugs are allowed. The cemetery requires a sealed burial vault for all casket and cremation burials. Only human cremated remains will be allowed to be buried in the cemetery. Only one human cremated remains shall be allowed to be buried in one gravesite. There is a current marking fee of $100.00, subject to change at any future date, for marking each grave. These funds are due on or before the day of burial and are used for cemetery maintenance. A permanent stone or marker is required following the burial within one year. No permanent stones or markers will be allowed to be set in the cemetery without the permission and knowledge of the Tarkio Home Cemetery board. No human or other cremated remains will be allowed to be spread on the cemetery grounds.

For all burials, please contact Tarkio Home Cemetery Association at 660-736-4195. The Cemetery Association will not be responsible for any accidents, property theft or vandalism of the stones or markers. The Association will be responsible for providing dirt for the sunken graves but not for sowing grass seed. To prevent injury or damage to adjoining lots and to preserve the beauty of the grounds, no future plantings of trees, shrubs or flowers will be permitted. Gravestones with flower vases may have flowers in them at any or all times. Decor such as decorative stone, vigil candles, crosses, balloons, windmills, pictures or glass containers must all be secured on the gravestone not on the surrounding ground. Only American Flags may be displayed. Mulch, fences and curbing are no longer allowed. Bench monuments are only allowed if installed on a full length, ground level, granite foundation. During the Memorial Day observance, shepherd hooks, seasonal cut flowers, artificial flowers, arrangements and wreaths are permitted. All unsecured flowers and decorations must be removed within two weeks following Memorial Day. The Association reserves the right to remove any of the above items, if they become unsightly, inappropriate or hinder the cemetery maintenance.

We appreciate everyone’s cooperation as our only goal is to protect the beauty of our cemetery for generations to come.

Tarkio Home Cemetery Association