Swampscott DPW prepping cemetery for Memorial Day

SWAMPSCOTT – Department of Public Works crews are busy this week sprucing up the cemetery in preparation for Memorial Day.DPW Director Gino Cresta said he sends crews to the cemetery every day to mow the grass and do other routine maintenance.”We’re pretty fortunate,” he said. “People are pretty good about cleaning up and adhering to cemetery rules and policies. We really don’t have much of a problem with people leaving dead wreaths or flowers laying around.”Cresta said he expects a new sign to be erected within a few weeks reminding residents that plantings cannot be located more than one foot from the front of the headstone and nothing can be placed behind the stone.He added regulations prohibit cement vases, urns, boxes or containers of any kind for growing flowers. He said metal holders for cut flowers are permitted and potted plants must be placed on legs or stands to avoid damaging turf.He pointed out potted plants, baskets or other floral decorations placed on graves or lots for Memorial Day must be removed within 15 days following Memorial Day. He added shrubs and flowers, including any flowers from funerals that are left on graves or lots, would be removed when they become withered or objectionable in appearance in any way.He also reminded cemetery visitors to stay on the paths unless it is absolutely necessary to walk across lawns or lots to access the lot they are visiting.