Seven methods of cremation ash scattering

People often wonder about the best methods for scattering ashes after a cremation. If your loved one has expressed a desire to have their remains scattered in lieu of a traditional burial, the following methods of ash scattering may help you plan a meaningful tribute to the departed.

1. Casting ashes: This refers to simply tossing the ashes up into the wind. It’s important to check wind direction and to cast down wind. Friends and family members can take turns scattering ashes, or scatter them together as a group in a toast-like gesture using paper cups.
2. Raking ashes: In this ceremony, the ashes are poured from the urn evenly on loose soil and raked into the ground.
3. Green burial: A hole is dug in the ground and the ashes can either be poured in the ground or placed in a biodegradable urn.
4. Trenching ashes: Using a garden tool, make a shallow trench or groove in the ground. The trench is then filled from the scattering urn and raked over when complete.
5. Ringing Ashes: Form a ring on the ground around a significant object, like a tree or a flowering shrub. Hold the scattering urn very close to the ground and pour the ashes into the ring.
6. Water scattering: The ashes are placed in a biodegradable bag or urn.Urns are available that are made that float and quickly biodegrade into the water. Throwing loose ashes directly into the water is not recommended as the wind could blow them back into the boat or onto land.
7. Aerial ash scattering: Usually performed by professionals pilots, aerial scattering involves scattering the ashes from a private plane. Pilots can arrange a time for you to fly over a desired location and scatter the ashes. This is best if done on clear days where the ashes can be seen from the ground.

You should always choose a place to scatter the ashes in a location that has some meaning and importance to you and your loved one. The services you choose can be as formal or informal as you like. Heartland Cremation can help you create a beautiful and meaningful ash scattering ceremony personalized to your family’s needs.

With any cremation ash scattering, be sure to familiarize yourself with the local laws and obtain any necessary permits. Your funeral director will be able to help you with this.

For more information on cremation services, please contact Heartland Cremation. With four generations of experience in the funeral and cremation business, we provide the Kansas City area with simple, worry-free cremation services that will treat your loved one with all the dignity and respect that they deserve.