Planning a scattering ashes ceremony pond

Families often find themselves to be caretakers of a loved one's ashes. What began as an emotional need to keep a deceased family member close, sometimes leads to indecision and low-level anxiety. Should something be done with their cremated remains? And if so, what's the right thing to do? You really have four choices: retain possession of them, inter them in a local cemetery, learn how to scatter ashes on your own; or hire one of many ash scattering services available to area residents.

But, how can you know which is the best service for your needs? As we are the leading cremation services provider in the region, you can trust any one of our recommended ash scattering services to reduce any anxiety or concern you may be feeling. Call us at 212-473-2220 to learn more about how we can assist you in planning a service for scattering ashes.

Planning a Scattering Ashes Ceremony

For many families, cremation is the primary choice because it is both affordable and flexible. Whether you want to incorporate cremation into a traditional funeral, more personalized memorial service or even a creative celebration of life, there are many options. At Starbuck Funeral Home, we believe that every family should plan for a cremation service that truly reflects and captures the life lived by the deceased. In doing so, a memorable occasion is created that celebrates those who have passed away. Now that we have shared with you how to scatter ashes, it is important that we provide information about planning a ceremony for scattering ashes.

In order to plan a ceremony for scattering ashes, 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 ashes spreading ceremony that is unique, personalized and thoughtful.

Ash Scattering Ceremony Ideas

The common image most of us have of a scattering ashes ceremony is one of a casting ceremony 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. Here are some other popular ideas for scattering ashes:

A raking ceremony involves pouring the ashes on the ground and then raking them into the soil at the conclusion of the ceremony. This can be a very effortless way to scatter the ashes and is appropriate for scattering ceremonies held on privately-owned land.

Considerations When Planning a Service for Scattering Ashes

Basically, an ash scattering service is a state- and federally-regulated company offering professional scattering of cremated remains. For a fee, an ash scattering service (following strict Environmental Protection Agency guidelines) will distribute your loved one's ashes in the location of your choice. While there really is no governing agency actively overseeing ash scattering, there are some basics you should know about scattering ashes:

Public parks require that you obtain a scattering permit.
Scattering ashes in inland waters is governed by the Clean Water Act. You will need to obtain a permit from the state agency involved in the care of inland water ways.
Ash scattering at sea must be done at a location which is 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 can be left behind.
For scattering done at sea, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that you notify the regional office in writing within 30 days after the event.

Turn to Us

Whether you choose to plan your own ash scattering ceremony or enlist a service, we are here to help you plan the details. When considering an ash scattering service, you should know that each of the services we recommend can be trusted to care for your loved one's cremated remains. Call us today at 212-473-2220 to speak with us about our recommendations for reputable ash scattering services.