Ash Scattering Services
We spend a great deal of time thinking about how we can best meet the unique needs of area families. After all, many of today's families simply aren't interested in doing things the same old way; in fact, they're actively looking for specialized funeral-related services.
For families who have chosen cremation for a loved one, the next decision involves what to do with the remains. Some choose to keep the cremated remains in their home, have them placed in a columbarium niche at a local cemetery, or scatter the ashes in a meaningful place.
In order to plan for an ash scattering ceremony, it is important to understand what is involved. For many families the loss of a loved one leaves a void that cannot possibly be filled. However, through memorials like scattering ashes ceremonies and memorial services, healing can begin. When planning these families must first look into their options for cremation prices, cremation urns and most importantly research the local guidelines for conducting such ceremonies.
When it comes time to sit down and plan, think first about your deceased loved one and the life that they lived. Then, consider the options for their memorial. It is important to find the right location and add all necessary personal touches. Every person is different, so plan for an ash scattering ceremony that is unique, personalized and thoughtful.
Basics of Ash Scattering
- If you plan on scattering ashes on private property, it's smart to receive written permission from the owner.
- Public parks require that you obtain a scattering permit.
- There are no regulations regarding ash scattering on uncontrolled public lands; you need to use your own judgment.
- You should not scatter ashes within 100 yards of public roads or trails.
- The cremation container must be disposed of separately and in an environmentally-safe manner.
- Scattering ashes in inland waters is governed by the Clean Water Act so it's important to obtain a permit from the agency that oversees waterways.
- Ash scattering at sea must be done at a minimum of three nautical miles from the coastline.
- Any flowers or wreaths used in the ash scattering ceremony held at sea must decompose. No plastic flowers or other non-decomposable items should be left behind.
- For ash scattering done at sea, the Environmental Protection Agency requires that you notify the regional office in writing within 30 days after the event.
Tips for Planning Ash Scattering Ceremonies
Scattering the ashes of a loved one is a meaningful way to celebrate their life and specially commemorate them. Planning an ash scattering ceremony can be overwhelming, but with a few tips, you can create a ceremony that honours the memory of your loved one. Here are some tips to help you plan an ash scattering ceremony:
- Choose a meaningful location: Pick a place that was special to your loved one, such as a favourite beach, park, or other outdoor location.
- Invite family and friends: Inviting family and friends to the ceremony can help bring comfort and closure and provide a chance to share memories and stories of your loved one.
- Create a meaningful program: Include meaningful activities such as music, readings, and other tributes to honour the life of your loved one.
- Prepare meaningful words: Write a few words to recite as you scatter the ashes. For example, a poem, a prayer, or a few sentences about your loved one.
- Include symbolic items: You may want to include items to symbolize your loved one, such as photos, flowers, or a meaningful item that belonged to them.
- Respect the environment: Check local regulations and be aware of any environmental considerations when choosing a location for the ceremony.
Planning an ash scattering ceremony can be a challenging process, but it can also be a meaningful way to honour the life of your loved one. By following these tips, you can create a unique, meaningful, and respectful ceremony that will make a lasting impression for years to come.
Ash Scattering Ceremony Ideas
The common image most of us have of scattering ashes is one of a casting ceremony for scattering ashes where the ashes are tossed into the wind or sprinkled on the surface of a lake, river, or sea. Whether one person is responsible for the casting or it's a group effort, casting a loved one's ashes can present challenges. We advise you check the direction of the wind and always cast downwind to avoid having the ashes come back to coat your clothes, skin and hair.
1. Water Ceremony
As opposed to casting ashes over water, we can organize what’s referred to as a water ceremony which sees the cremation ashes put into a water-soluble urn. The urn will be placed in the water, it will float for a couple minutes before it begins to sink and dissolve. To conclude the ceremony, guests will often toss flowers, petals, or wreaths into the water as one final tribute. However, ensure the flowers or wreaths can easily decompose.
2. Trenching Ceremony
A trenching ceremony is another popular ash scattering ceremony. A trench or hole is dug into the ground and the ashes are scattered inside. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the family covers the trench or hole. Trenching ceremonies are ideal for those who loved to garden or loved nature. We have had many trenching ceremonies where the trench is dug under a tree or in a flower bed. Like a casting ceremony, you can get more creative. For example, we have seen trenches dug in the shape of a heart and trenches where the initials of a loved one are spelled out.
3. Ringing Ceremony
A slight variation on the trenching ceremony is a ringing ceremony. A trench is dug in a circle around a tree, flower, or something else of significance. Some families choose to create a memorial at the centre of the ring with candles, a picture of the deceased, or some type of memento like a favourite jersey.
4. Raking Ceremony
A raking ceremony often takes place in large gardens or in flower beds. The ashes are dispersed evenly across a section of soil. Often, each family takes turns raking the ashes into the soil and as they do so they share a memory of the deceased with the other guests.
Scattering gardens are becoming very popular across North America. Many cemeteries have built beautiful scattering gardens where families can spread their loved one’s ashes alongside other members of the community. These garden areas grow beautiful trees and flowers, have a solemn and tranquil setting, have seating areas for quiet reflection, and are surrounded by plaques and markers.
5. Sky Ceremony
Aerial ash scattering has been quickly growing in popularity. For this type of scattering ceremony, we will work with a private company that will fly your loved one’s ashes into the sky and release them. Aerial scattering can be done by plane, helicopter, hot air balloon, or even by a hang glider.
One negative about this type of ceremony is that you are often not allowed to fly in the plane with your loved one’s ashes. With some companies, you can pay an additional fee to fly along but the number of attendees and space will be limited.
Since families are usually unable to be involved in the scattering portion of the service, many families will organize a small ceremony with music, prayers, and speeches prior to the plane taking off. On a clear day, aerial ash scattering can be viewed from the ground. In addition, the company flying the aircraft will usually take photos of the scattering that families can take home as a keepsake.