SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Families are sharing their concerns over the treatment and care of their loved one’s grave sites at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Brenda and Mac Salter, who have family members buried in the local cemetery, have pointed out that the headstones are often left covered in dirt and debris. They also noted problems such as flooding and the poorly maintained lawn.

The Salters said they often take matters into their own hands and handle the restoration and beautification of the gravestones.

“When they mow, they don’t trim around the gravestones,” Brenda mentioned. “The grass just grows unchecked between them. So, during the summer, our family comes out every week to tidy up around the graves.”

The Salters said they aren’t the only ones with these concerns, as they’ve seen other families doing similar care.

“We’ve witnessed many others doing the same,” Brenda added. “People schedule days to come here and take care of their loved ones’ graves, as the cemetery staff doesn’t do it.”

Perpetual care is promised when lots are purchased, but the Salters said management isn’t holding up their end of the deal.

Manager John Bokasxm said, “If the family is upset, we want to fix that for the families, so by no means am I saying the family’s wrong. That’s their perception and it’s valid. And we want to address that. We want to individually address that with each family that we’re privileged to serve.”