[1][2][3][4][5] The Greensprings Natural Cemetery Association was incorporated in 2004 under the leadership of Jennifer Johnson, Susan Thomas, Mary Woodsen, and Carl Leopold.

[6][7][8][9] Initially, seven acres of land on Irish Hill in Newfield, New York were purchased from Herb Engman, a Town of Ithaca supervisor and staunch ecologist.

[11][6] Greensprings has been working with the Natural Resource Conservation Service of the USDA to make the preserve more inviting to grassland birds, improve pollinator habitat, and remove invasive tree and shrub species.

[13] Only biodegradable materials such as natural fiber shrouds, wicker baskets, or plain wooden coffins are allowed.

Although burying and scattering of ashes is permitted in designated areas at Greensprings, this practice is somewhat discouraged due to the environmental costs of cremation.