Here is the weebpage for the Missouri laws governing cemeteries. http://www.moga.state.mo.us/statutes/chapters/chap214.htm I have visited some of these cemeteries in Missouri and actually found the tall prairie grass--charming(?). I mean, I felt like was walking into a different time period when tall prairie grasses were everywhere. (The preservation of prairie grass is considered important in the Midwest, since it has almost vanished.) Searching through the tall grass in the cemetery (in this case, Chestnut Cemetery in Mercer Co) was exciting--I had to really search! Of course, the chance of missing a stone was a problem, too. I've made this sound way too romantic, because I also remember getting stung by a wasp which had built it's nest in the grass. I was told that these cemeteries have yearly cleanings where locals get together and burn off the grass, clear out the weeds, etc. I think this is prior to Memorial Day. I believe those interested in cemetery cleaning should especially look at section 214.020 of the above website. If you are researching NORTON, GOTT, THARP, MCATEE, GAY, BETZ, HARPER, SHIRLEY, RATLIFF, Marmaduke SCOTT