Scattering Ashes At Sea

SCATTERING ASHES AT SEA

It’s no surprise that many coastal residents love the ocean.  Often, when a loved one passes, the family chooses to scatter their ashes at sea.  This is a meaningful moment for families and, with the proper knowledge, it is relatively easy to do.

Scattering of ashes must take place three nautical miles from the seashore to ensure that ashes are not spread to a populated place during their descent to the ocean floor.  Scattering may not take place on the beach or off of a pier.  There are no special permits needed to scatter a loved one’s cremated remains at sea; but, the Environmental Protection Agency does require that the family complete their simple, online reporting tool within thirty days of the scatter.  You can find this reporting tool by going to:  https://www.epa.gov/ocean-dumping/burial-sea 

Presently, only human ashes can be scattered at sea.  The EPA has not authorized scattering for animals.  

Scattering ashes can be made even more ceremonious and meaningful with the use of a biodegradable urn.  Eco-friendly urns come in many shapes, sizes and materials.  The Beachwood Society has many options from which to choose.

Several of our area’s charter tour companies offer memorial scattering cruises, with packages ranging from a small group of people to larger groups.  In many cases, military honors can also be rendered, depending on the availability of military Honor Guard personnel.

It is recommended that scattering take place when the sea is calm and there is no rain or thunderstorms in the forecast.  Please be mindful of the wind and make an effort to scatter down-wind from the boat to avoid blowback of the ashes.

Sources:

Environmental Protection Agency – Burial at Sea | US EPA

The Beachwood Society

Cremation Association of North America