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When people think about scattering ashes, they often think about places where they have found peace and solitude, so they can mix the cremation ashes with their fond memories. Many have experienced these feelings in areas such as our beloved parks and forests.
But, there are many questions concerning the guidelines and cremation laws about spreading ashes. The rules for scattering ashes can vary depending on what area you are considering -- there are no standard rules that apply to all areas. However, to provide some guidance, let's take an example. In Minnesota, many have found peaceful memories at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA), an area consisting of more than one million acres of wilderness in the Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota. If you wanted to scatter ashes in this area, you would need to consider the following guidelines:
Consider the effects of wind when scattering ashes:
When you are spreading ashes, a major force to consider is the wind. Wind can radically change your whole cremation ash scattering plan. So, try to schedule your cremation ceremony when there is less wind; try to do the ash scattering in a place protected from the wind; and think about doing a small test before you proceed with the scattering of ashes.
Investigate ash scattering rules specific to the area:
Each area has its specific rules. For example, the Boundary Waters is a quiet, peaceful area due to the rule that motorized and mechanized equipment is not allowed in a large percentage of the area. Therefore, if you are planning to scatter ashes in the BWCA, this rule would apply to you. So, you cannot scatter ashes from airplanes flying below 4000 feet, or from equipment such as sailboats, motorboats, snowmobiles, and ATV's.
Do not scatter ashes in a way that affects others:
The location of the cremation ceremony is important. For example, in the Boundary Waters, you would not want to scatter the ashes near put-ins, campsites or portages, as there is a high chance that visitors are using the water in these areas for drinking, cooking, and swimming.
Observe the privacy of others when doing your cremation ceremony:
Find a place where you can keep the cremation ceremony private. People go to outdoor areas like the Boundary Waters to commune with nature, and the words and actions of a cremation ceremony could detract from the wilderness experience.
Be kind to our wildlife and fish when you scatter ashes:
Be careful to not dump large quantities of cremation ashes in wet, boggy or marshy areas. Fish and wildlife could be negatively affected by this.
Be aware of the overriding principles of the area when spreading ashes:
Observe what the area is emphasizing, and make all efforts to integrate the cremation ceremony with these principles. For example, a major principle of the Boundary Waters is to leave no trace behind -- a good guideline for all public areas. Towards this:
Make sure that the cremation ashes do not contain large items, such as bones or metal.
Be sure that you have not left any visible mounds of cremated ashes behind -- make sure to spread the ashes well.
And, although there is a high chance that you will be tempted to leave markers, headstones or other devices to commemorate the lost of your loved one, don't leave any artifacts behind -- let nature mark the area for you.
Investigate the specific cremation laws and guidelines for the area you are considering:
To find out specific cremation laws and regulations about spreading ashes, you will need to contact the authorities for the area you have in mind. For the BWCA, you will need a special permit, plus knowledge of the additional guidelines and regulations. The contact information for the BWCA can be found in the Scattering Ashes menu area of the Minnesota Cremation site listed in the resource box.
My best to you as you go through this - it is never easy. However, perhaps the solitude of scattering ashes in the areas that are special to you can help bring peace -- to all.
I like investigating the new and unusual. For example I find cremation interesting -- after all, how we treat death involves all of us. Find out more about Minnesota Cremation, including topics such as cremation costs, the cremation process, plus more information about scattering ashes in Minnesota's Boundary Waters.
BJ Anderson
http://www.MinnesotaCremation.org
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