Body Farms: A Field of Opportunity

Abstract

Human Taphonomic Facilities (HTF)—or as they are more commonly known, body farms—have grown in number since the first facility opened in 1980. As recognition of their utility grows, it is worth reconsidering their origins in light of the generative value they provide and the challenges yet to overcome. This paper examines the first HTF in depth, tracing how it came about and the advances it has made to the field of forensics. I address the ethical implications that body farms pose, but also the solutions they have to offer.